n.
Pronunciation: ' t ə f
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English t ō h; akin to Old High German z ā hi tough
Date: before 12th century
1 a : strong or firm in texture but flexible and not brittle b : not easily chewed < tough meat>
2 : GLUTINOUS , STICKY
3 : characterized by severity or uncompromising determination < tough laws> < tough discipline>
4 : capable of enduring strain, hardship, or severe labor < tough soldiers>
5 : very hard to influence : STUBBORN <a tough negotiator>
6 : difficult to accomplish, resolve, endure, or deal with <a tough question> < tough luck>
7 : stubbornly fought <a tough contest>
8 : UNRULY , ROWDYISH <a tough gang>
9 : marked by absence of softness or sentimentality <a tough critic>
synonyms see STRONG
– tough · ly adverb
– tough · ness noun