HOARSE Synonyms: 58 Similar and Opposite Words

hoarse

adjective

ˈhȯrs

Definition of hoarse

as in gruff

harsh and dry in sound the dying man spoke in a hoarse whisper

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hoarse His usually peppy voice is hoarse. — Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 26 Apr. 2026 James’ reasoning had nothing to do with having a hoarse voice at the end of practice. — Mark Medina, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2026 As her own doppelgänger, Red, Nyong'o is as terrifying as Adelaide is terrified, speaking with a distinctive, hoarse voice that sends a chill up your spine. — Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Mar. 2026 Tears have been shed, throats have been screamed hoarse. — Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hoarse

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hoarse

Adjective

Matt Damon plays Odysseus as a gruff, practical tactician, rather than an energetically inventive and morally dubious schemer.

— Caroline Mimbs Nyce, New Yorker, 17 July 2026
The New Zealander drew international acclaim for roles as gruff loners and unhinged villains.

— Harrison Smith, Washington Post, 13 July 2026

Definition of gruff

Adjective

Tyler, after a brief recovery period, returned to the recording studio with a huskier, edgier voice.

— Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
The extravagant, hi-NRG single showcased the breadth of Tyler’s husky grandeur, which proved a perfect fit for Giorgio Moroder.

— Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 9 July 2026

Definition of husky

Adjective

After drying, stick the cuttings into small pots filled with coarse potting soil to ensure proper drainage.

— Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 17 July 2026
Emily Young, a spokesperson for the Lake County Health Department, said in an email that there are fine particulates and coarse particulates.

— Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026

Definition of coarse

Adjective

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County invites the community to take part in the eighth annual Rusty Rodeo, a free, family-friendly event focused on removing invasive rusty crayfish from local waterways, district officials said.

— Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026
Pulisic looked rusty while getting his first start since the group stage opener when he was subbed out at halftime with a calf injury.

— Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026

Definition of rusty

Browse Nearby Words

hoariness

hoarse

hoary

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“Hoarse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hoarse. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of hoarse

adjective

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