gruff

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the late 1940s and early 1950s, most leading tenor saxophonists adapted either the hefty, gruff attack of Coleman Hawkins or the airy, linear style of Lester Young.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

The son of a Scottish immigrant, McCluskie had a reputation as a political street fighter and his gruff style complemented Becerra’s more measured, cerebral approach.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

The details were salacious and shocking to his peers, who’d known him as a socially awkward, occasionally gruff finance bro.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 9, 2026

While the Silk Sonic project, from its name on down, is a tribute to the lush textures of ’70s soul, Mr. .Paak’s occasionally gruff presence brings a touch of hip-hop to the mix.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

“Never thought any of you had any mettle to show,” he said, attempting to be gruff.

From "The Book of Three" by Lloyd Alexander