   Tough as RawhideTough as rawhide is a Southern and Appalachian saying meaning exceptionally strong, durable, or resilient - physically or in spirit. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #PeopleandRelationships #Southern synonyms: tough as boot leather, hard as hickory, strong as an ox, gritty Hillbilly Dude Says...  I'd say I haven't heard 'tough as rawhide' in awhile - so it's probably more of an old timers phrase nowadays. Hillbilly Dude Says... I'd say I haven't heard 'tough as rawhide' in awhile - so it's probably more of an old timers phrase nowadays. Pronunciation[TUFF as RAW-hide] /tʌf æz ˈrɑː.haɪd/ Meaning & Usage- Extremely tough or resilient (saying)
Ruth:
You think that old mule’s wore out?
Lem:
Nah. He’s tough as rawhide - just like the man that raised him.variations: tougher than rawhide, mean as rawhide (variant usage) ★ When Southerners say someone’s "tough as rawhide," it’s pure respect - they’ve worked hard, weathered worse, and kept right on goin’. ★ Origin and EtymologyThis phrase dates back to the 1800s and draws on everyday farm life, when rawhide - untanned animal hide - was valued for its toughness and flexibility. It spread through rural Southern and Appalachian communities where leatherwork and livestock were part of daily life. The saying became a mark of admiration for people who endured hardship without breaking. Usage NotesStill common across the South and Appalachia, tough as rawhide describes strength born of hard living and perseverance. It may refer to a person, an animal, or even a piece of equipment that’s proven its worth through use and endurance. | ...
About Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more... |