I. ]lē, ]li adjective
( often -er/-est )
Etymology: alteration of obsolete English sirly, from Middle English, from sir + -ly — more at sir
1. obsolete : arrogant in manner or bearing : domineering , haughty , imperious
be opposite with a kinsman, surly with servants — Shakespeare
2. : ill-natured, abrupt, and rude : churlishly cross : crabbed
answered in a surly voice
a surly dog
a surly old man
3.
a. : making or accompanied by threatening sounds : menacing, gloomy, or dismal in appearance
surly weather
b. : difficult to manage : intractable — used chiefly of soil
Synonyms: see sullen
II. adverb
: in a haughty or imperious manner
a lion … went surly by — Shakespeare