Roughnecked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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roughnecked
[ˈrʌfˌnɛkt ]
Definition
describing personality
Roughnecked refers to a person who is tough, brash, or unrefined in their demeanor or behavior. It's often associated with individuals who work in labor-intensive jobs or come from a rough background. This term can imply a lack of sophistication but also a certain authenticity or grit. In more specific contexts, it can relate to the oil industry, where 'roughneck' describes a worker on a drilling rig.
Synonyms
brash, rugged, tough, unrefined.
Examples of usage
- His roughnecked behavior made him popular among the construction crew.
- She admired his roughnecked charm despite the gritty lifestyle.
- Roughnecked individuals often value hard work over elegance.
Translations
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Origin of 'roughnecked'
The term 'roughneck' originated in the late 19th century, primarily associated with workers in the oil drilling industry. It derived from the compound of 'rough,' indicating a lack of refinement or polish, and 'neck,' which is often used in slang to refer to a person or a worker. The implication of toughness and hardiness became a hallmark of the identity of these laborers, who often faced dangerous and physically demanding conditions. Over time, the word evolved to embody not just the literal interpretation of a rough-and-tumble worker, but also the cultural persona associated with such individuals. The association with the oil industry solidified the term in American vernacular, where it has extended beyond its original context to describe those with a gritty or unrefined character.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,703, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.