gruff
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Sprawling, gruff, imposing and, at times, intimidating, the city would never be mistaken for Paris, Rome, London or even Berlin.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026
He stays gruff, of course, but you sense that Ray is as manacled by his authoritarian role as Colin literally is in his hungry, slurping devotion to his master.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 2026
Born Tyrone Griffin Jr., Ty Dolla Sign is known for his gruff sandpaper vocals and memorable hooks.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2026
He is a situational bear, a situational bull and, almost despite himself, at age 87, a gruff, perpetual, starry-eyed idealist.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026
“Never thought any of you had any mettle to show,” he said, attempting to be gruff.
From "The Book of Three" by Lloyd Alexander
Vocabulary lists containing gruff
100 SAT Words Beginning with "G"
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The Girl Who Drank the Moon
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Auggie & Me
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