surly
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.
Beca is a surly delinquent of questionable judgment.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026
I recommend creating a “go box” for your family to have when you slip these surly bonds of earth.
From MarketWatch • Nov. 20, 2025
As a surly, teenage combination of self-aggrandizement and self-doubt, she is the instantly recognizable character that makes the rest of the world believable.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2025
Somehow he wrangles a group of five surly boys until one of their rich fathers comes through and whisks away four.
From Salon • Feb. 16, 2024
Then her eves hardened and her voice grew a little surly.
From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole
Vocabulary lists containing surly
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone
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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 7
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