raspy

adjective

ˈra-spē 

raspier; raspiest

1

: harsh, grating

2

: irritable

Synonyms of raspy

• irritable
• fiery

Examples of raspy in a Sentence

Her voice was raspy from yelling so much.

overwork tends to make him raspy

Recent Examples on the Web

In 1976, the already raspy-toned singer underwent surgery to get nodules removed from her vocal cords. — Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, NPR, 9 July 2026

Edward Juvier is raspy and rumpled as the imperious theater producer Bela Zangler. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 6 July 2026

The prize, which was auctioned off by Odenkirk, who assumed the role of a hypeman in a top hat and spoke in a raspy voice, included an autographed script of the highest bidder’s favorite episode and an invitation to a live reading of the show for up to three guests. — Charlie Vargas, Daily News, 8 May 2026

My range is so reduced, and the quality of my voice is raspy. — Nina Agrawal, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

raspy

adjective

ˈras-pē 

raspier; raspiest

: making a harsh grating sound

a raspy voice