curt

scorching

adjective. harsh

Word Origin & History

mid-14c., from Latin curtus "(cut) short, shortened, incomplete," from PIE root *(s)ker- "to cut" (see short (adj.)). Sense of "rude" is first recorded 1831. The Latin word was adopted early into most Germanic languages (cf. Icelandic korta, German kurz, etc.) and drove out the native words based on Proto-Germanic *skurt-, but English retains short.

Example Sentences for curt

"I believe you are jealous of the malgamite works," he said, with his curt laugh.

His reply was curt and pertinent: "It took long enough, young man!"

Mrs. Marsh was even more hostile and curt than when I had seen her last.

“At last you have condescended to come,” said the old proud, curt voice.

The message was curt, and even cold, but it brought her no disquiet.

He issued a curt command, and there was the sound of movement.

Then she considered the curt summons that gave no clue, and lastly looked at me.

He asked why, but only got for answer a curt statement that trains were not moving just now.

"As a precaution against spies," was his lordship's curt answer.

There was a curt brevity in his manner which was new to Miss Gannion.

curt

quick

quicker

quickest

rough

rougher

roughest

rude

scorching

curt

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