abrupt

abrupt

adjective \ə-ˈbrəpt\

Definition of ABRUPT

1

a : characterized by or involving action or change without preparation or warning : unexpected <came to an abrupt stop> <an abrupt turn> <an abrupt decision to retire>

b : unceremoniously curt <an abrupt manner>

c : lacking smoothness or continuity <an abrupt transition>

2

: giving the impression of being cut or broken off; especially : involving a sudden steep rise or drop <abrupt hills> <a high abrupt bank bounded the stream>

— abrupt·ly \ə-ˈbrəp(t)-lē\ adverb

— abrupt·ness \ə-ˈbrəp(t)-nəs\ noun

Examples of ABRUPT

1. There was an abrupt change in the weather.
2. The road came to an abrupt end.
3. The storm caused an abrupt power failure.
4. She has an abrupt manner.

Origin of ABRUPT

Latin abruptus, from past participle of abrumpere to break off, from ab- + rumpere to break — more at reave

First Known Use: 1530

Related to ABRUPT

Synonyms

blunt, bluff, brusque (also brusk), crusty, curt, downright, short, short-spoken, snippy, unceremonious

Antonyms

circuitous, mealymouthed

Related Words

gruff, rough, snappish; candid, direct, forthright, foursquare, frank, free-spoken, open, outspoken, plain, plainspoken, point-blank, straightforward, straight-out; artless, discourteous, disrespectful, impertinent, impolite, inconsiderate, insensitive, rude, tactless, undiplomatic; brief, closemouthed, laconic, reserved, reticent, terse, tight-lipped; earnest, honest, sincere; coarse, crass, crude, low, uncouth, vulgar

Near Antonyms

civil, considerate, courteous, diplomatic, gracious, polite, politic, smooth, suave, tactful; loquacious, talkative, voluble; long-winded, prolix, verbose; courtly, cultivated, gallant, genteel, polished, refined

See Synonym Discussion at precipitate, steep

Rhymes with ABRUPT

bankrupt, corrupt, disrupt, erupt, irrupt