curt
6 synonyms and 5 antonyms for curt, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Speaking briefly to the point of seeming rude; short and blunt.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use curt
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a curt reply
curt tone
curt nod
Etymology
From Latin curtus, "shortened" — the same root gives us "curtail" and, through French, "short" as a doublet.
Full origin of curt →Frequently asked questions
What does “curt” mean?
The word “curt” means speaking briefly to the point of seeming rude; short and blunt. In plain terms, abrupt and to-the-point in a way that comes across as unfriendly.
How do you pronounce “curt”?
“Curt” is pronounced kurt (/kɝt/ in IPA).
How do you use “curt” in a sentence?
Here is “curt” used in a sentence: “Her curt reply made it clear she didn't want to discuss it.”
What part of speech is “curt”?
“Curt” is an adjective.
Where does the word “curt” come from?
The word “curt” comes from Latin. From Latin curtus, "shortened" — the same root gives us "curtail" and, through French, "short" as a doublet.
Is “curt” a common word?
“Curt” is an uncommon word in modern English.
