English Dictionary

Definition of “curt

curt (kɜːtPronunciation for curt

Definitions

adjective

  1. rudely blunt and brief; abrupt  ⇒ a curt reply 
  2. short or concise

Alternative Forms

ˈcurtly adverb ˈcurtness noun

Word Origin

C17: from Latin curtus cut short, mutilated

Usage examples

  • That and her almost curt dismissal as we'd lumbered to a stop.
    James Birrell, THE MAŃANA MAN (2002)
  • Even though I had a lit one in my hand, I refused, taking exception to his particularly curt manner.
    Spiked (2003)
  • Manmohan Singh may not have been willfully rude to the NDA delegation that called on him but he was undeniably curt and irritable.
    Samachar (2004)
  • Asked is he would comment as he approached the team bus, Rebrov gave a curt "No".
    Sun, News of the World (2002)
  • Robbie stared at the floor, so Thomas explained in one curt word.
    Bernard Cornwell, The Grail Quest (3) HERETIC (2004)

Browse dictionary