What does grosser mean?
“Grosser” is the comparative form of “gross” in its adjective senses. It can mean larger in size or amount, as in a comparison between totals, effects, or costs, or more vulgar, offensive, or repellent in quality. Because it is an inflected form rather than a common standalone noun, its use is limited: the intended contrast must be clear, and many speakers choose “greater,” “larger,” or “more offensive” instead. A historical noun “grosser” also survives, chiefly in dated or specialized references, for a merchant who deals in goods wholesale. The form is recognized in both British and American English, with the usual regional difference in the pronunciation of the vowel in “gross.” As a comparative, “grosser” is most effective when a direct comparison has already been established. It is more specific than the general comparative “more,” while its potentially unpleasant connotations in its second sense make tone important. In formal writing, a plainer alternative is often preferable; in vivid or deliberately coarse contexts, “grosser” can convey degree forcefully.
The comparative of gross: larger in size or amount, or more vulgar, offensive, or repellent.
"The accusations became grosser as the argument continued."
Usually informal or marked. The meaning depends on the noun or situation in which the comparison is made.
A merchant or dealer who buys and sells goods in wholesale quantities.
"The grosser supplied cloth to retailers throughout the region."
Rare and chiefly historical or specialist.
The plural is appropriate only in rare historical or specialist uses of the noun.
"The grossers negotiated prices with the major manufacturers."
“Grosser” hides two very different comparisons: a bigger total or a decidedly worse joke.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does grosser come from?
The comparative adjective grosser was formed in English by adding the suffix -er to gross. The word gross entered Middle English from Old French gros, ultimately from Latin grossus, meaning “thick” or “coarse.” The historical noun grosser, meaning a wholesale merchant, developed from the commercial sense of gross, while related English words such as engross and grossular also trace their histories to Latin grossus.
Related word forms
How grosser is actually used
Grosser is an inflected comparative and is much less common than the alternatives greater, larger, or more offensive. Its use as an adjective is often informal, dated, or strongly marked, especially in the sense meaning more vulgar or repellent. The noun is now chiefly confined to historical or specialist references.
Easily confused with grosser
Gross is the base adjective and can mean total, bulky, vulgar, or repellent, whereas grosser is specifically its comparative form.