adjective
- having a rough, harsh voice or manner; unfriendly in speech or behavior
Examples
- The old man gave a gruff reply when asked for directions.
- Her gruff voice made her sound angry even when she wasn’t.
- Despite his gruff exterior, he was actually very kind.
- The coach’s gruff manner intimidated the new players.
- He answered the phone with a gruff ‘Hello?’
- The security guard spoke in a gruff tone to the visitors.