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.

Stout and slightly gruff, Dipper has a digital face that can approximate more than 40 expressions.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 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

Mr. Hersh, age 88, is a gruff charmer; a viewer will understand why people open up to him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 24, 2025

Gen. Vasyl Maliuk, a gruff and muscular career security officer, took charge of the agency soon after Russia invaded in 2022.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 10, 2025

“That’s all right!” said a deep, gruff voice from within.

From "Mary Poppins" by P. L. Travers