1. a difficult problem, question, or situation
Usage: informal
2. a tough or resilient person
Usage: informal

Examples

• That math problem was a real toughy.
• The final exam question was quite a toughy.
• This crossword puzzle has some real toughies.
• He’s a toughy who never gives up.
• She proved to be a toughy during the negotiations.
• The coach called him a little toughy after he kept playing despite the injury.