verb
- speaking in a rough, harsh, or unfriendly manner; addressing someone gruffly
Usage: present participle of 'gruff' used as a verb; informal
Examples
- He was gruffing at the waiter for bringing the wrong order.
- Stop gruffing at me—I'm just trying to help.
- The old captain was gruffing orders to the crew.
- She didn't mean to be gruffing; she was just tired.
- He has a habit of gruffing when he's stressed.