Definition of gruff
(Entry 1 of 2)
1 : rough, brusque, or stern in manner, speech, or aspect
a gruff reply
2 : being deep and harsh : hoarse a gruff voice
gruff
verbgruffed; gruffing; gruffs
Definition of gruff (Entry 2 of 2)
: to utter in a gruff voice or manner
"Get out of bed now!" gruffed the sergeant.
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Time Traveler for gruff
The first known use of gruff was in 1691
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