Want to say surly differently? Here are other words for surly and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of surly
having a bad-tempered or unfriendly disposition
Etymology of surly
The word "surly" has its roots in Old English and Middle English, with "sur" or "sor" meaning "sour" or "unpleasant", and the suffix "-ly" indicating a manner or disposition, thus originally implying a sour or unpleasant demeanor
Synonyms
gruff
irritable
grouchy
cranky
testy
cantankerous
peevish
petulant
sullen
morose
glum
gloomy
dismal
grumpy
cross
crabby
sulky
moody
ill-tempered
bad-tempered
short-tempered
temperamental
irascible
fractious
querulous
choleric
splenetic
crank
curmudgeon
Definitions
- Having or showing a bad-tempered or unfriendly disposition
- * Uncooperative or unhelpful
Usage Examples
- The surly waiter seemed put off by our questions about the menu
- * His surly attitude made it difficult to work with him
- * She gave a surly response when asked about her day