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surly

[sur-lee] / ˈsɜr li /


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.

His 2023 “Flora and Son” was about a surly single mother who picks up a guitar and discovers that her life doesn’t change that much.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

Beca is a surly delinquent of questionable judgment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

I recommend having a ‘go box’ for when you slip these surly bonds of earth.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 20, 2025

That said, it was adorably quaint to see the recent midseason cliffhanger brawl be kicked off by a surly Russian sensei that resembles Zangief from “Street Fighter.”

From Salon • Feb. 13, 2025

He went to no houses of the village and when they came to him, those who were left of the winter’s starving, he was surly with them.

From "The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck




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