gruffly

American  

[gruhf-lee] / ˈgrʌf li /

adverb

1. in a low, harsh, gravelly voice; hoarsely.

   The album is nothing but monster hit after monster hit, all played energetically and sung gruffly by these aging rockers.

2. in a rough, brusque, or surly manner.

   “Hey, now, cut that out!” he said gruffly, looking at us with a stern frown.

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Etymology

Origin of gruffly

First recorded in 1680–90; gruff ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

As PJ, Culp gruffly embraces his role as the play’s polemical fire-starter.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

He did so gruffly, Ms. Pollini said, saying it was “a misunderstanding.”

From New York Times • Feb. 8, 2024

“We’ll send out a press release later, Miss Kunene,” he said gruffly, then turned his back to her.

From Slate • Dec. 24, 2022

"The injury is severe. His prospects are very poor," said the medic treating him, gruffly, seconds before the ambulance left to move the patient to a safer location.

From BBC • May 2, 2022

Sir Grummore blushed with pleasure and said gruffly, in his Norman way, “Well, thanks, Palomides. I must say, I think that’s demned decent of you.”

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White