Definition

This word describes someone who is very brief and rude in their speech or manner, often cutting off conversation or showing a lack of interest.

Example

His response was the curtest I've ever received, leaving me feeling dismissed.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I noticed that he was really curtest during the meeting today.

Yeah, I thought his responses seemed a bit abrupt.

It’s surprising because he’s usually so friendly.

Maybe he was just having a bad day.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Curtest → It is formed from "curt" (from Latin "curtus", meaning shortened or cut off) and the superlative suffix "-est" (meaning most). The word "curtest" means the most brief or the shortest in length or duration.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'cut off' or 'shortened' ('curt') — when something is the 'curtest', it is the most brief.

Visually Confused Words