Definition

Very unfriendly or rude; showing a bad temper.

Example

The surliest customer complained about everything during his visit.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you noticed how the new guy is the surliest person in the office?

Yeah, it's hard to get him to smile at all!

I wonder what’s making him so grumpy all the time.

Maybe he just needs a little time to adjust to the team.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Surliest** → It is formed from "surly" (from Middle English *surlie*, meaning sullen or unfriendly) and the suffix "-est" (meaning the most). The word "surliest" means the most sullen or unfriendly in disposition.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is the 'most unfriendly' or 'most sullen' — that's what 'surliest' describes.

Visually Confused Words