Surly

/ˈsɜrli/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Bad-tempered and unfriendly; rude.

The surly waiter rolled his eyes when we asked for more bread.

Sullen and unfriendly in mood or disposition.

He had a surly demeanor that made everyone around him feel uncomfortable.

Grumpy and irritable.

After a long day at work, he returned home in a surly state, not wanting to talk to anyone.

Threatening or menacing; grim.

The surly clouds suggested a storm was imminent.

Middle English 'serly', from the word 'surl', which means 'bitter' or 'sullen'.

surly disposition:

An unfriendly or gloomy attitude.

surly reply:

A response characterized by a bad mood or gruffness.

In a bad mood.

He was acting all surly after the game.

Unfriendly or difficult to deal with.

I don't like talking to him; he's just so surly.