Surl

Surl (archaic) describes someone who is arrogant, ill-tempered, and rude. Often, a surl is someone of a lower social class who exhibits this behavior, especially toward those they perceive as their superiors. The word evokes a sense of boorishness and churlishness, conveying a disdainful and unpleasant attitude. A surl is not simply unhappy but deliberately defiant and disrespectful, making them unwelcome in social settings.

Surl meaning with examples

• The manor's owner despised the surl's constant complaints about his wages and duties. He viewed his staff's negativity as a direct challenge to his authority, finding it hard to put up with his workers. Eventually, the constant negativity made the aristocrat angry and the surl was replaced.
• The knights attending the royal banquet often encountered surls among the serving staff. These individuals would intentionally spill wine or serve food slowly, openly expressing their discontent with their positions. The knights knew it was best to be quiet and avoid confrontation.
• Though a talented craftsman, his surl personality alienated many potential clients. His unwillingness to negotiate prices and constant criticisms of their preferences made him a difficult person to employ, ultimately damaging his business.
• The poet wrote about the surl villagers, and how their faces seemed to mirror the bleak winter landscape. Their resentment of the wealthy landowners was etched in their expressions. There was nothing but poverty and hate in their eyes.
• Despite her beauty, her surl temperament repelled her suitors. She found fault with everything, offering cruel and sarcastic remarks. Her disdain for everything pushed the men she wanted away.