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adjective, sur·ly \ˈsər-lē\

Simple Definition of surly

  • : rude and unfriendly

Source: Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary

Full Definition of surly


  1. 1 :  menacing or threatening in appearance <surly weather>

  2. 2 obsolete :  arrogant, imperious

  3. 3 :  irritably sullen and churlish in mood or manner :  crabbed

surlily play \-lə-lē\ adverb
surliness play \-lē-nəs\ noun
surly adverb

Examples of surly in a sentence



Did You Know?

In its very earliest uses in the 16th century, surly meant "majestic" or "lordly." These early meanings make sense when you know that this word is an alteration of Middle English "serreli," which probably comes from "sire, ser," a title formerly used as a form of address for men of rank or authority. So how did a word with such lofty beginnings come to be associated with grumbling rudeness? Arrogant and domineering behavior is sometimes associated with men of rank or position, and "surly" came to mean "haughty" or "imperious." These meanings (which are now obsolete) led to the "rude" sense that is very common today.

Origin of surly


First Known Use: 1523

Synonym Discussion of surly


SURLY Defined for Kids


adjective sur·ly \ˈsər-lē\

Definition of surly for Students


  1. :  mean and rude :  unfriendly <a surly neighbor>

History for surly

To a noble person it might seem natural to link together high birth and good manners, but the word surly is evidence that other people have not always thought this way. In Middle English the word was spelled sirly, which made more obvious its derivation from sir, the traditional title of respect. Sirly had much the same meaning as lordly does today, that is, “proud, haughty.” Although its meaning has evolved to “rude” or “unfriendly,” surly still refers to a way of acting that is quite the opposite of good-mannered.

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up surly? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).


the range of perception or understanding

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