gravelly

[ grav-uh-lee ]

adjective

1. of, like, or abounding in gravel.
2. harsh and grating:

   a gravelly voice.

gravelly

/ ˈɡrævəlɪ /

adjective

1. consisting of or abounding in gravel
2. of or like gravel
3. (esp of a voice) harsh and grating

Other Words From

• un·gravel·ly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of gravelly¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, gravelly is from the Middle English word gravelli. See gravel, -y ¹

Example Sentences

He was instantly recognisable by the heavy bags under his eyes and his rich, gravelly voice – fine-tuned by whisky and cheroots.

From BBC

His gravelly tones were used in The Simpsons and as the voice of Mufasa in The Lion King.

From BBC

He was best known for giving the Star Wars supervillain Darth Vader his distinctive gravelly voice.

From BBC

Across the gravelly road is a massive lot that stores container boxes.

From Los Angeles Times

Suddenly the room was filled with a familiar deep and gravelly singing from across the globe.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• discordant
• gruff
• harsh
• raucous
• throaty