1530s, of physical things, "coarse, coarse-grained," from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German grof "coarse (in quality), thick, large," of uncertain origin, regarded by some as related to Old English hreof, Old Norse hrjufr "rough, scabby," with Germanic completive prefix ga-. Of manners, "rough, surly," by 1690s. Related: Gruffness.
例文
1. His gruff exterior concealed one of the kindest hearts.
彼の荒々しい外見の下にはとても善良な心が隠されている。
2.He picked up the phone expecting to hear the chairman 's gruff voice.
彼は電話を取って、主席の太い声が聞こえると思った。
3.He could be gruff and monosylabic.
彼は言葉を詰まらせ、言葉が多くない。
4.Benath his gruff exterior,he 's really very kind-hearted.