Raspy

Raspy describes a harsh, grating, or scratchy quality, typically relating to sound or texture. It suggests a roughness that can be unpleasant or irritating. This characteristic often implies a lack of smoothness or refinement. The word 'raspy' is versatile, applying to voices, textures, musical instruments, and even the feel of a fabric. It paints a vivid picture of an imperfect surface or a sound lacking in clarity and smoothness. It conveys a sense of friction or discordance and is often associated with age, overuse, or a state of disrepair.

Raspy meaning with examples

• The singer's raspy voice, a result of years of touring and countless late nights, filled the smoky bar. Each note was gravelly, raw, and full of a character that captivated the audience. The raspiness added a unique charm to her performance, a testament to her life lived and musical journey.
• The old wooden door creaked with a raspy sound as the wind forced it open. The aged hinges, dry with rust, grated against the frame. The sound echoed the desolate emptiness of the abandoned house. It was an unsettling sound, hinting at unseen presences.
• He ran his hand along the raspy bark of the old oak tree, feeling the coarse texture against his skin. The rough surface, weathered by years of sun and storm, felt alive with history. The ridges and fissures provided a tactile connection to the natural world and a sense of the tree's endurance.
• The violin's strings, when bowed too roughly, produced a raspy sound instead of a clear, pure tone. It was a frustrating mistake for the aspiring musician, hindering the flow and musical quality of his efforts. This rough quality marred the piece's beauty.
• Her throat felt raspy after the long speech, raw and scratchy from exertion and emotional stress. She sipped water, attempting to soothe the irritation and calm her ragged breath. The raspiness was a testament to her effort and dedication.