Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner's English Dictionary - rugged

1. A rugged area of land is uneven and covered with rocks, with few trees or plants. (LITERARY) ...rugged mountainous terrain. ADJ: usu ADJ n • ruggedly ...a ruggedly beautiful wilderness. ADV: ADV adj • ruggedness The island’s ruggedness symbolises our history and the character of the people. N-UNCOUNT 2. If you describe a man as rugged, you mean that he has strong, masculine features. (LITERARY) A look of pure disbelief crossed Shankly’s rugged face. ADJ: usu ADJ n c darkgreen]approval • ruggedly He was six feet tall and ruggedly handsome. ADV: ADV adj, ADV -ed 3. If you describe someone’s character as rugged, you mean that they are strong and determined, and have the ability to cope with difficult situations. Rugged individualism forged America’s frontier society. ADJ: usu ADJ n c darkgreen]approval 4. A rugged piece of equipment is strong and is designed to last a long time, even if it is treated roughly. The camera combines rugged reliability with unequalled optical performance and speed. ADJ • ruggedness The body is 90% titanium for ruggedness. N-UNCOUNT