Definitions:

1. Describes a disposition or behavior characterized by being rude, unfriendly, or hostile. NOUN
   • His surliness towards his colleagues created a tense atmosphere in the office.
2. Showing a lack of courtesy or politeness, marked by a gruff or unpleasant manner. NOUN
   • The surliness of the customer service representative made the already frustrating situation even more difficult to handle.

Synonyms:

• brusqueness
• cantankerousness
• crabbiness
• grouchiness
• gruffness
• hostility
• irritability
• rudeness
• snappishness
• temper
• testiness