- Today's Word
Brusque
BRUSK (or BROOSK)
Definition
- (adjective) Abrupt or blunt in manner or speech, often to the point of being perceived as rude or curt.
Example
The manager’s brusque response to the employee’s question left everyone feeling uneasy about raising further concerns.
Fun Fact
“Brusque” comes from the Italian word brusco, meaning “sharp” or “tart,” which traces back to the Latin bruscum, referring to a coarse shrub used for making brooms. The term initially described rough or coarse textures before evolving to describe a person’s demeanor. Its nuanced history reflects how physical descriptors often transition into metaphors for behavior, making it a vivid way to capture someone’s lack of refinement in communication.
(adjective) Attractive or appealing in a sweet, innocent, or endearing way.
Her winsome smile put everyone at ease the moment she walked into the room.
From Old English wynn, meaning “joy” or “delight.”