surly

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.

Beca is a surly delinquent of questionable judgment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

I recommend having a ‘go box’ for when you slip these surly bonds of earth.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 20, 2025

When reporters learned his cousin Buono was his suspected accomplice, they drove to Glendale but found him a surly subject.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 31, 2025

Somehow he wrangles a group of five surly boys until one of their rich fathers comes through and whisks away four.

From Salon • Feb. 16, 2024

There, by the cab stand at the Roosevelt Hotel, George was keeping a surly watch over the wagon.

From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole