Definition

Having a deep, rough sound like a growl, often used to describe a voice or noise.

Example

The dog had a growly bark that made everyone feel uneasy.

Conversation

Did you hear that growly sound coming from the basement?

Yeah, it sounded a bit creepy, didn’t it?

I wonder if it's just the old pipes making that growly noise.

Or maybe it's our cat trying to scare us!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'growly' is derived from the verb 'growl' (of imitative origin, representing the sound made by animals, particularly dogs) with the addition of the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by or having the quality of). Therefore, 'growly' describes something that has the quality of growling, often referring to a low, guttural sound made by an animal.

Memory Tip

Think of the sound of an animal 'growling' — the '-y' at the end means it has that quality, so 'growly' describes something that sounds like a growl.

Visually Confused Words