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surly

[sur-lee] / ˈsɜr li /


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.

His 2023 “Flora and Son” was about a surly single mother who picks up a guitar and discovers that her life doesn’t change that much.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

Beca is a surly delinquent of questionable judgment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

I recommend creating a “go box” for your family to have when you slip these surly bonds of earth.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 20, 2025

That said, it was adorably quaint to see the recent midseason cliffhanger brawl be kicked off by a surly Russian sensei that resembles Zangief from “Street Fighter.”

From Salon • Feb. 13, 2025

Uniforms, posters warning against fifth columnists, two big air-raid shelters dug into the park lawns, and everywhere, surly officialdom.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan




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