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Definition of terse

terse

/tɜːrs/
terse
Adverb:tersely
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terse Lexical Profile

terse Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Sparing in the use of words; abrupt, curt, or cleanly concise to the point of seeming brusque.

Example

"The spokesperson issued a terse two-sentence statement declining to comment on the ongoing investigation."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for terse

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'concise' and 'succinct' carry positive connotations of clear, efficient communication, 'terse' often implies an abrupt, curt, or unfriendly tone, though it can also neutrally describe a stripped-down literary style.

• Rhymes for terse

• Nearby Words

terrorize
terrorizer
terry
terse
tersely
terseness
tertiary

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin 'tersus', meaning 'wiped off, clean, or neat' (and figuratively 'polished' or 'refined' in style), the past participle of 'tergere' ('to wipe or rub clean').

Cite this Entry

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