Meaning & Definition of Gruff in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: Having a rough or low voice.

  Example Sentence: He answered in a gruff voice that made her flinch.

• Definition: A manner that is brusque or unfriendly.

  Example Sentence: His gruff demeanor often scared away newcomers.

• Definition: Rough or coarse in texture.

  Example Sentence: The gruff wool felt scratchy against her skin.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English, possibly from the word 'gruf', meaning rough.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• gruff exterior, soft interior: A phrase describing someone who appears tough but is actually kind-hearted.
• gruff growl: A low, rough sound made when speaking or expressing displeasure.

Translations

• Spanish: áspero

• French: bourru

• German: rau

• Russian: грубый

Related Words

• brusque: Abrupt or offhand in speech or manner.

• stern: Serious and unrelenting, especially in the assertion of authority and exercising of discipline.

• blunt: Saying what one thinks without concern for the feelings of others.

Slang Meanings of gruff

• Meaning: To be straightforward or frank.

  Example Sentence: He was gruff about his feelings but meant well.

• Meaning: To deal with something in a no-nonsense manner.

  Example Sentence: She took a gruff approach to getting the project done.