Meaning & Definition of word "Curt"

Curt

/kɜːrt/

adjective:

  • 1. Brief and concise to the point of being rudely abrupt.
    • Example: His curt response left everyone in the meeting feeling dismissed.
  • 2. Having a rude or blunt quality in manner or speech.
    • Example: She was taken aback by his curt tone during the conversation.
  • 3. Short in duration or extent.
    • Example: The meeting was surprisingly curt, lasting only ten minutes.

Etymology

Middle English: from Latin 'curtus' meaning 'cut short'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

curt response:

A reply that is brief and may come off as rude or dismissive.

curt manner:

A way of behaving that is particularly brusque or short.

curt tone:

A tone of voice that sounds abrupt and could be interpreted as unfriendly.

Related Words

brusque:

Abrupt or offhand in speech or manner.

terse:

Brief and to the point; using few words.

blunt:

Very direct and to the point without consideration for feelings.

Slang Meanings of curt

Meaning: Short and rude response

Example Sentence: When asked if he was coming, he just said 'no' in a very curt way.

Meaning: Sharp or abrasive interaction

Example Sentence: Her curt comments cut through the small talk at the party.