Rough

/rəf/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A rough or unpolished version of something.

She submitted a rough of her painting for critique.

verb

To make rough or rougher; to damage the surface of.

The storm roughed up the coast, leaving debris everywhere.

adjective

Having an uneven or irregular surface; not smooth or level.

The rough surface of the stone made it difficult to walk on.

Not gentle or mild; harsh or vigorous.

He spoke to her in a rough voice after the argument.

Not finished or completed; in a preliminary or unfinished state.

The rough draft of the report needs to be revised before submission.

Old English 'ruh,' meaning 'rough, shaggy.'

rough around the edges

lacking refinement or polish, but having potential.

rough and tumble

rough, vigorous, and aggressive behavior.

rough it

to live without the comforts normally provided.

get rough

to become aggressive or harsh.

rugged

having a rough or uneven surface.

coarse

rough in texture or not fine.

harsh

unpleasantly rough or jarring to the senses.

to act in a tough or aggressive manner.

He had to get rough with them to make them listen.

to handle something in a careless or rough manner.

Don't be rough with that painting; it's very valuable.