Hardish

/ˈhɑrdɪʃ/ adjective

Definition

Somewhat hard; having qualities that are moderately hard but not extremely so.

Etymology

From 'hard' (Old English 'heard') plus the diminutive suffix '-ish' (Old English 'isk,' meaning somewhat or rather). The suffix allows speakers to describe things in a more nuanced way than absolute terms.

Kelly Says

The '-ish' suffix is pure English genius—it lets you hedge and qualify any adjective, which is why 'reddish,' 'bluish,' and 'hardish' all feel naturally casual, as if you're uncertain about the exact degree of the quality.

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