gruffly

[gruhf-lee]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gruffly¹

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

Example Sentences

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

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"You should stop poking around in other people's stuff," he said gruffly.

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The Guardian's review said Sir Michael delivers "a gruffly heart-breaking performance" in the film, while the Radio Times added he "plays his role with complete dignity".

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“If I had my wall defaced like this, I would paint over it,” the man told Mr. Ovchinnikov gruffly.

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“Follow me,” he said gruffly, jangling his key ring.

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