Rugged Meaning and Definition
Rugged
Pronunciation
/ˈrʌɡɪd/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A rugged definition refers to something that is tough, sturdy, and resistant to wear and tear, often used to describe natural landscapes or objects.
Examples
- The rugged coastline was marked by steep cliffs and rocky shores.
- The new pair of hiking boots were designed for rugged terrain.
Synonyms
- Tough
- Robust
- Sturdy
Antonyms
- Delicate
- Dainty
- Frail
Etymology
The word ‘rugged’ comes from the Old English word ‘rucian’, meaning ‘to strengthen’ or ‘to harden’. It has evolved to describe anything that is physically demanding or resilient.
Additional Information
Rugged is often used to describe landscapes, materials, and objects that have been shaped by the forces of nature, such as mountains, rocks, and weathered wood.
In modern language, rugged is also used to describe digital products, such as mobile devices or software, that are designed to be durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Rugged styles of clothing and gear are also popular among outdoor enthusiasts, such as hikers, campers, and climbers.
The term rugged is often contrasted with smooth or sleek, highlighting the contrast between harsh natural environments and more refined or polished human-made objects.
Usage Notes
The word rugged can be used in various contexts, including:
- Describing natural landscapes, such as mountains or coastlines.
- Characterizing materials or objects that are physically demanding or resilient.
- Describing digital products that are designed to be durable or resistant to wear and tear.
- Referring to rugged styles of clothing or gear.
Cultural References
The term rugged has appeared in various forms of media, including films, literature, and music. For example:
- The film ‘Rugged Seas’ is a classic adventure movie that features a rugged beach environment.
- The novel ‘The Rugged Trail’ is a coming-of-age story about a young adventurer.
- The song ‘Rugged’ is a rock ballad that explores themes of resilience and determination.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The term rugged is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as:
- ‘Rugged individualism’: an ideology that emphasizes self-reliance and independence.
- ‘Rugged terrain’: describing an environment that is physically demanding or unforgiving.
Related Words or Phrases
Other words or phrases that are closely related to rugged include:
- Tough
- Robust
- Sturdy
- Weathered
- Rough
Collocations
Common collocations with the term rugged include:
- Rugged coastline
- Rugged terrain
- Rugged clothes
- Rugged gear
Frequency of Use
The word rugged is relatively common in modern language, especially in contexts that involve outdoor activities or digital products.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the term rugged include:
- Ruggid
- Ragud
- Ruges