raspy

Imagine the sound of sandpaper rubbing against wood. That is often the feeling this word gives. It usually describes a voice or sound that is rough, harsh, and a little scratchy. A singer might sound this way after performing for hours, and someone with a sore throat might speak in a rough voice like this. It can also describe something that feels rough to the touch, but that use is less common. Think of it as something that is not smooth or easy on the ears.

This word describes something with a rough, harsh, scratchy quality. It is used most often for voices and sounds. Think about a voice that has been strained from overuse, like a singer after a long concert, or someone speaking through a bad cold. That kind of voice may sound low, dry, and rough in a way that is easy to notice.

The idea behind the word is close to the feeling of scraping or rubbing against something rough. Because of that, it fits sounds that seem to catch in the throat or rub against the ear instead of coming out smoothly. You might say, "She answered in a raspy whisper," or "He gave a raspy cough before speaking." It can also be used for texture in some cases, such as dry, unfinished wood that feels rough under your hand, though that is less common than the sound meaning.

Overall, the word suggests a lack of smoothness, especially in the way something sounds. Most of the time, if you use it, people will think first of a rough voice, a harsh whisper, or a scratchy sound.