Definition

The quality of being unfriendly or rude in behavior or attitude.

Example

His surliness made it difficult for others to approach him.

Conversation

Did you notice his surliness today during the meeting?

Yeah, it was hard to miss; he seemed really off.

I wonder what caused that sudden change in mood.

Maybe he’s just having a rough day; we all have those sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Surliness → It is formed from "surl" (from Old French *surl*, meaning surly or rude) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "surliness" refers to the state of being surly or unfriendly.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'surl' which means rude or unfriendly, and remember that 'surliness' describes the quality of being unfriendly.

Visually Confused Words