Raspiness

Raspiness refers to the quality or state of being rough, harsh, or grating, often in sound or texture. It suggests a lack of smoothness or a surface that causes friction. The term is commonly used to describe a scratchy or gravelly voice, but can also apply to the feel of a surface or even the harshness of a taste. It can evoke a sense of discomfort or irritation due to the roughness involved. The intensity of raspiness varies, ranging from a mild catch to a significant impediment.

Raspiness meaning with examples

• The singer's voice, once smooth as silk, now had a noticeable raspiness after the long tour, making his performance slightly less polished but more raw and emotive. The raspiness added a unique charm to his music.
• Due to a cold, the speaker's throat developed a significant raspiness. They needed to clear their throat often, making the presentation a challenge, but the audience listened attentively.
• The old, unvarnished wood of the barn door had a distinct raspiness when touched, splinters threatened the unwary hand, a reminder of its age and the elements it had endured.
• The raspiness of the sandpaper on the wood created the perfect surface for the final coat of varnish.
• Her emotional breakdown and crying left a noticeable raspiness in her voice when she spoke the next day.