Surly

usgb/ˈsɜːrli/
adjective

Rude or unfriendly.

The waiter had a surly attitude.
Visual representation of "surly" - Rude or unfriendly

Often appears as...

  • surly attitude
  • surly response

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "surly"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Perceived Intent

Surly often suggests a deliberate intent to be unpleasant.

Illustration for Perceived Intent
The surly guard dismissed my question with a wave.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Social Interaction

When someone is surly, they make others feel unwelcome or uncomfortable.

Illustration for Social Interaction
Her surly comments during the meeting silenced us.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Mood Indicator

Use 'surly' to imply someone's mood is temporarily unpleasant.

Illustration for Mood Indicator
After losing the game, he was unsurprisingly surly.
Visual representation of the word "Surly"

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