curt

¹

[ kurt ]

adjective

, curt·er, curt·est.

1. rudely brief in speech or abrupt in manner.

   Synonyms: sharp, snappish

2. brief; concise; terse; laconic.
3. short; shortened.

   Synonyms: abbreviated

Curt

²

[ kurt ]

noun

1. a male given name, form of Curtis.

curt

/ kɜːt /

adjective

1. rudely blunt and brief; abrupt

   a curt reply

2. short or concise

Derived Forms

• ˈcurtly, adverb
• ˈcurtness, noun

Other Words From

• curt·ly adverb
• curt·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of curt¹

First recorded in 1620–30, curt is from the Latin word curtus “shortened, short, cut short”

Word History and Origins

Origin of curt¹

C17: from Latin curtus cut short, mutilated

Synonym Study

See blunt.

Example Sentences

"No, it is just a win," was Ten Hag’s curt reply when asked if the success could be regarded as a turning point.

From BBC

“Ask them ‘what do you need?’” says Hayden - even if that is met more than once with curt replies such as “new legs!” as runners shuffle past.

From BBC

They had what might be described as a curt conversation, though either one of those words might be pushing it.

From New York Times

Months of hopeful waiting ended with a curt dismissal: “We’ve decided to move forward with another candidate.”

From Los Angeles Times

He eyes me and Alex and gives us a curt nod.

From Literature

Related Words

• blunt
• brusque
• concise
• offhand
• pithy
• succinct
• terse