gruffy

English

Etymology

From gruff +‎ -y.

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -ʌfi

Adjective

gruffy (comparative gruffier, superlative gruffiest)

1. (in appearance, speech, manner, etc.) Rough or surly.
   • 2010, Johnathon M. Creech, Legends Of Myrthia:Shards of the Kaynara, page 145:

     “Hey, bub,” a gruffy looking man stood over him. “You're lookin' for that kid ain't ya?”

2. (of a voice) Low and throaty; hoarse.
   • 2018, J.E.K. Roberts-Thomas, A Married Life, page 37:

     A gruffy, almost sleep sounding voice answered the phone.

Derived terms

• gruffily
• gruffiness