Comparative form of tough; more difficult to break, cut, or chew; more resilient or demanding.
From Middle English 'tough', possibly from Old English 'tōh' meaning tenacious or sticky. The comparative form follows standard English patterns with '-er' suffix for one-syllable adjectives.
Psychological research shows that people who face moderate challenges and overcome them actually become mentally tougher - it's called 'stress inoculation.' The phrase 'tough as nails' dates to the 1930s, referring to the hardness of metal nails.
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