abrupt

(noun, adjective, verb)

adjective

1. marked by sudden changes in subject and sharp transitions

- abrupt prose

Similar word(s): disconnected, staccato, disconnected

2. exceedingly sudden and unexpected

- came to an abrupt stop

- an abrupt change in the weather

Similar word(s): sudden

3. extremely steep

- an abrupt canyon

Similar word(s): steep, precipitous, sharp

4. surprisingly and unceremoniously brusque in manner

- an abrupt reply

Similar word(s): discourteous

Sentences with abrupt as an adjective:

- The party came to an abrupt end when the parents of our host arrived.

- The abrupt style, which hath many breaches.

noun

1. (poetic) Something which is abrupt; an abyss. [First attested in the mid 17th century.]

verb

1. (transitive, archaic) To tear off or asunder. [First attested in the mid 17th century.]

2. To interrupt suddenly. [First attested in the mid 17th century.]