Tough, a.

(tŭf), a. [compar. TOUGHER; superl. TOUGHEST.] [A-S. tôh, for tâh, tæh, D. taai, L. Ger. taa, tage, taa, O. H. Ger. zâh, zâhi, zâch, N. H. Ger. zähe; Dan. seig, sei, Sw. seg, Icel. segr.]

1. Having the quality of flexibility without brittleness; yielding to force without breaking; as, the ligaments of animals are remarkably tough. “Tough roots and stubs.” Milton.
2. Not easily broken; able to endure hardship; firm; strong.

A body made of brass, the crane demands, . . . Tough to the last, and with no toil to tire. Dryden.

3. Not easily separated; viscous; clammy; tenacious; ropy; as, tough phlegm.
4. Stiff; rigid; not flexible. “So tough a frame she could not bend.” Dryden.
5. Severe; violent; as, a tough storm. [Colloq.]

“ A tough debate.” Fuller.