1. bad-tempered and unfriendly; rude and hostile in manner

Examples

• The surly waiter barely looked at us when taking our order.
• He gave a surly response when asked about his weekend plans.
• The security guard’s surly attitude made visitors feel unwelcome.
• She was in a surly mood after working late all week.
• The store clerk’s surly behavior drove customers away.
• His surly expression warned everyone to stay away.