surly
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The presence of the surly uncle, insufferable in-law, or grating girlfriend at the holiday table can make it hard to truly count one’s blessings.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 21, 2025
I recommend creating a “go box” for your family to have when you slip these surly bonds of earth.
From MarketWatch • Nov. 20, 2025
As a surly, teenage combination of self-aggrandizement and self-doubt, she is the instantly recognizable character that makes the rest of the world believable.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2025
But it’s deeply surly at heart, as Malone and Wallen take turns lashing out at an ex who blames them after a relationship crumbles.
From New York Times • May 10, 2024
Smith, for some reason not his usual surly self, laughed with them, saying he hadn’t been aware that the dockers and reporters were still there.
From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand
Vocabulary lists containing surly
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone
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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 7
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