First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
rugged
adjective rug·ged \ˈrə-gəd\
: having a rough, uneven surface
of a man's face : having rough but attractive features
: strong and determined
Full Definition of RUGGED
2
: having a rough uneven surface : jagged <rugged mountains>
4
a : seamed with wrinkles and furrows : weathered —used of a human face b : showing facial signs of strength <rugged good looks>
6
a : presenting a severe test of ability, stamina, or resolution b : strongly built or constituted : robust <those that survive are stalwart, rugged men — L. D. Stamp>
— rug·ged·ly adverb
— rug·ged·ness noun
See rugged defined for English-language learners
See rugged defined for kids
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Origin of RUGGED
Middle English, from Middle English *rug
Related to RUGGED
Synonym Discussion of RUGGED
rough, harsh, uneven, rugged, scabrous mean not smooth or even. rough implies points, bristles, ridges, or projections on the surface <a rough wooden board>. harsh implies a surface or texture distinctly unpleasant to the touch <a harsh fabric that chafes the skin>. uneven implies a lack of uniformity in height, breadth, or quality <an old house with uneven floors>. rugged implies irregularity or roughness of land surface and connotes difficulty of travel <a rugged landscape>. scabrous implies scaliness or prickliness of surface <a scabrous leaf>.
RUGGEDNESS Defined for Kids
rugged
adjective rug·ged \ˈrə-gəd\
Definition of RUGGED for Kids
1
: having a rough uneven surface <rugged hills>
3
: involving hardship <rugged training>
— rug·ged·ly adverb
— rug·ged·ness noun
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