Hardscrabble: meaning, definitions and examples
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hardscrabble
[ hɑrdˈskræbəl ]
struggling life
Hardscrabble refers to a life of difficulty and hardship, often associated with poverty or struggling to make a living. This term is frequently used to describe environments or situations where one must work hard with little reward. It embodies the idea of resilience in the face of adversity and the persistent challenge to overcome financial or social obstacles. In literature, hardscrabble settings often highlight the struggles of characters, painting a vivid picture of their tough existence.
Synonyms
gritty, hardship-laden, struggling, tough.
Examples of usage
- He grew up in a hardscrabble neighborhood.
- The farmer led a hardscrabble life, battling the elements.
- Their hardscrabble efforts finally paid off.
Translations
Translations of the word "hardscrabble" in other languages:
🇵🇹 dificuldade
🇮🇳 कठिनाइयों से भरा
🇩🇪 mühsam
🇮🇩 sulit
🇺🇦 важкий
🇵🇱 trudny
🇯🇵 困難な
🇫🇷 difficile
🇪🇸 difícil
🇹🇷 zor
🇰🇷 어려운
🇸🇦 صعب
🇨🇿 těžký
🇸🇰 ťažký
🇨🇳 艰难的
🇸🇮 težak
🇮🇸 erfið
🇰🇿 қиын
🇬🇪 რთული
🇦🇿 çətin
🇲🇽 difícil
Etymology
The term 'hardscrabble' originated in the United States around the mid-19th century, combining the elements 'hard' and 'scrabble.' The word 'hard' signifies difficulty and toughness, reflecting the challenges faced in hardscrabble environments. The second part, 'scrabble,' derives from the action of scraping or struggling for something, often used in the context of earning a living. Initially, it described barren land or areas where it was hard to farm and make a profit. Over time, 'hardscrabble' evolved to characterize any situation marked by struggle and adversity, particularly in working-class contexts. It became a popular term in literature and discussions around social and economic challenges, encapsulating the spirit of perseverance against odds.