What does TOUGH mean?

Definition of Tough

Part of speech: adjective

Definition: difficult to cut, break, or chew; strong and durable; able to withstand hardship or pain; strong-willed or determined; harsh or severe; difficult or demanding; cool or intimidating in appearance or manner

Pronunciation (US): tuhf

Pronunciation (UK): tʌf

Origin and Usage: The word "tough" originated from the Middle English word "tough" or "tuh" which means "strong" or "difficult". It has been used in English since the 14th century. Tough is commonly used in everyday language to describe something that is strong and durable, or someone who is strong-willed or determined. It is also used to describe something that is difficult or demanding, or someone who is harsh or severe in their manner.

Synonyms: strong, durable, resistant, sturdy, hardy, tenacious, firm, unyielding, rugged, robust, determined, resolute, stubborn, unrelenting, uncompromising, demanding, challenging, difficult, rigorous, taxing, harsh, severe, strict, stern, austere, unapproachable, cool, intimidating

Related Words: rough, bough, cough, dough, hough, lough, nough, plough, slough, trough

Example Sentences:

• That steak is too tough to eat.
• The material is tough enough to withstand extreme temperatures.
• Shes a tough competitor who never gives up.
• The coach has a tough training regimen for the team.
• He has a tough exterior, but hes really a softie at heart.