Tough’un
In Southern and Appalachian speech, "tough’un" means "tough one." It’s used for someone strong, resilient, or able to handle hard times-or for something difficult to face.
synonyms: strong one, fighter, tough person, hard one
Hillbilly Dude Says...
My neighbor was a 'tough’un' on the football field - my Dad always he we like like a piece of iron. Pronunciation
[TUH-fuhn] /ˈtʌf.ən/
Meaning & Usage
- Someone strong, determined, or able to endure hardship
Mae:
He’s been through it, but he don’t quit.
He’s been through it, but he don’t quit.
Earl:
Yeah, he’s a tough’un.
Yeah, he’s a tough’un.- Something difficult or unpleasant
Roy:
Broke my hand haulin’ hay.
Broke my hand haulin’ hay.
Jack:
That’s a tough’un.
That’s a tough’un.variations: tough one, toughun, tough ’un
Origin and Etymology
A contraction of "tough one," following the same speech pattern seen in "good’un," "bad’un," and "mean’un." It reflects older English dialect forms where "one" was clipped to "’un." The phrase has long roots in Southern and Appalachian storytelling, where toughness is both necessity and compliment.
Usage Notes
"Tough’un" can describe a hardworking person, a rough experience, or even a stubborn animal. Usually said with admiration for grit or endurance.
- "She’s a tough’un, raised six kids by herself." → strong and resilient.
- "That was a tough’un of a winter." → difficult or harsh season.
- "He’s a tough’un to bargain with." → stubborn or determined.