short-spoken

[ shawrt-spoh-kuhn ]

adjective

1. speaking in a short, brief, or curt manner.

short-spoken

adjective

1. tending to be abrupt in speech

Word History and Origins

Origin of short-spoken¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

But Abby, a short-spoken misanthrope with a low threshold for irritation, is determined to live alone.

From New York Times

David, naturally prone to a healthy serenity, and although satisfied with the progress of the work, grew unnaturally gruff and short-spoken.

From Project Gutenberg

He is a decent, bluff, short-spoken old chap, with his heart in his work.

From Project Gutenberg

Hard-boiled and short-spoken, he was not overpopular with U.S. citizens in Shanghai, where he was consul general�but he got things done.

From Time Magazine Archive

Into the stunned silence that followed this outburst from short-spoken, reticent Olive, there came a new voice; such a sweet, lovely voice with a tender ring that made every one start to welcome the speaker.

From Project Gutenberg