gruff

/ˈgrəf/

Dutch grof; akin to Old High German grob coarse, hruf scurf

adjective

  1. rough, brusque, or stern in manner, speech, or aspect

  2. being deep and harsh : hoarse

a gruff reply

bluff blunt brusque curt crusty gruff mean abrupt and unceremonious in speech and manner. bluff connotes good-natured outspokenness and unconventionality. blunt suggests directness of expression in disregard of others' feelings.

verb

  1. to utter in a gruff voice or manner

"Get out of bed now!" gruffed the sergeant.