Gadit

tough

Definitions (3)
1Strong and resilient, able to withstand difficult conditions or treatment.
The tough fabric of the jacket made it perfect for hiking.
Despite the harsh weather, the plant proved to be quite tough.
She is a tough negotiator, never backing down easily.
2Difficult to chew or cut, often used to describe food.
The steak was overcooked and tough, making it hard to eat.
The bread had gone stale and was tough to bite into.
He found the meat too tough to enjoy.
3Challenging or difficult to deal with.
The exam was tough, but she managed to pass.
It was a tough decision to make, but he knew it was necessary.
The competition was tough, with many skilled participants.
Idioms & expressions
tough cookie, A person who is strong and resilient, able to handle difficult situations.
tough luck, An expression of sympathy or mock sympathy for someone's misfortune.
Word Origin
Language
Old English
Original word
tōh
Originally meant
strong, durable
Background
The word 'tough' has been used in English since the Old English period, originally meaning strong or durable. It has retained its core meaning over the centuries, expanding to describe both physical and metaphorical strength.