(definition) by Webster 1913 Tue Dec 21 1999 at 23:59:32

Gruff (?), a. [Compar. Gruffer (); superl. Gruffest.] [D. grof; akin to G. grob, OHG. gerob, grob, Dan. grov, Sw. grof, perh. akin to AS. rcofan to break, Z. reavc, rupture, g- standing for the AS. prefix ge-, Goth. ga-.]

Of a rough or stern manner, voice, or countenance; sour; surly; severe; harsh.

Addison.

Gruff, disagreeable, sarcastic remarks. Thackeray.

-- Gruff"ly, adv. -- Gruff"ness, n.

 

© Webster 1913.

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