tough
tough Lexical Profile
tough Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Demonstrating a strict and uncompromising attitude; difficult to deal with, solve, or accomplish.
"The committee faced a tough decision regarding the allocation of the annual budget."
Strong enough to withstand adverse conditions or rough handling; not easily broken, torn, or worn out.
"Hikers rely on tough, waterproof boots to navigate rocky mountain trails."
Able to endure hardship, physical pain, or emotional distress; resolute and determined.
"You have to be mentally tough to succeed as an investigative journalist in high-pressure environments."
Difficult to chew or cut (especially of meat or other food).
"Overcooking the roast beef made the meat dry and tough."
• adverb
In a forceful, uncompromising, or determined manner.
"The union negotiator talked tough during the opening session of the contract discussions."
• verb
To endure a difficult situation or period of hardship without giving up (usually used in the phrase 'tough it out').
"Despite the freezing rain, the marathon runners decided to tough it out and finish the race."
• noun
A rough, aggressive, or violent person; a rowdy or thug.
"In classic nineteenth-century novels, the harbor districts were often patrolled by local toughs."
• Rhymes for tough
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English toh, meaning 'strong and sticky' or 'viscous', derived from Proto-Germanic *tanhuz ('compact' or 'firm').