a. [ Compar. Gruffer superl. Gruffest. ] [ D. grof; akin to G. grob, OHG. gerob, grob, Dan. grov, Sw. grof, perh. akin to AS. rcófan to break, Z. reavc, rupture, g- standing for the AS. prefix ge-, Goth. ga-. ] Of a rough or stern manner, voice, or countenance; sour; surly; severe; harsh. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]
(adj) deep and harsh sounding as if from shouting or illness or emotion; ; ; ; - Virgil Thomson, Syn. husky, hoarse, Example:gruff voices; the dog's gruff barking; hoarse cries; makes all the instruments sound powerful but husky