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Definition of curtly

curtly

/ˈkɜːrt.li/
curt · ly
Adjective:curt
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curtly Lexical Profile

curtly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a rudely brief, abrupt, or brusque manner, especially when speaking or replying.

Example

"The receptionist nodded curtly and directed the visitors toward the waiting room without looking up."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for curtly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for curtly

• Rhymes for curtly

• Nearby Words

curtaining
curtainless
curtains
curtly
curtness
curtsy
curuba

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'curt' (borrowed from Latin 'curtus', meaning 'shortened' or 'cut off') and the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Curtly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/curtly
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