Definition of "gruff" []

• Brusque or stern in manner or appearance: a gruff reply. (adjective)
• Hoarse; harsh: a gruff voice. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "First Impression: Harley is described as a gruff, nasty, and rebellious biker."
• "At first Robber Mother answered in short, gruff sentences, but by degrees she became more subdued and listened more intently."
• "Mr. Richard seemed to be denying or refusing something in short gruff gasps of breath."