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Surly Definition & Meaning

surly
adjective
  1. inclined to anger or bad feelings with overtones of menace; "a surly waiter"; "an ugly frame of mind"

Usage tips for "surly"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "surly" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for surly to find words that pair well.

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Frequently asked questions

What does surly mean?
inclined to anger or bad feelings with overtones of menace; "a surly waiter"; "an ugly frame of mind"
What part of speech is surly?
Surly is an adjective.

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