ROUGHSHOD Meaning and
Definition
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Roughshod is an adjective that can be used to describe an individual, an action, or a situation involving a lack of consideration or sensitivity towards others. When someone behaves roughshod, they behave aggressively or in a dominating manner, often disregarding the feelings, rights, or opinions of others. The term roughshod is often associated with a sense of being harsh, brusque, or unpolished in one's interactions.
Historically, the term roughshod refers to a method of horse shoeing where the horse's hooves were fitted with shoes that had protruding nails on the outside. This enabled greater traction, making it easier for a horse to navigate slippery or uneven surfaces. However, this would also cause damage to any surface the horse would walk on, trampling it forcefully. By extension, the term roughshod came to be associated with someone who dominates or treads upon others with little regard for their well-being or opinions.
In modern usage, roughshod is commonly employed metaphorically. It can describe a person who bulldozes over the thoughts and feelings of others, showing little empathy or consideration. It can also characterize an action or policy that is forceful, unyielding, or merciless. For example, one might describe an authoritarian leader as ruling with a roughshod approach, showing a lack of tolerance for dissent or differing perspectives.
Overall, roughshod represents an individual or behavior that displays an aggressive and inconsiderate approach, often leaving little room for others' input or feelings.
Common Misspellings for ROUGHSHOD
- eoughshod
- doughshod
- foughshod
- toughshod
- 5oughshod
- 4oughshod
- riughshod
- rkughshod
- rlughshod
- rpughshod
- r0ughshod
- r9ughshod
- royghshod
- rohghshod
- rojghshod
- roighshod
- ro8ghshod
- ro7ghshod
- roufhshod
- Rogashon
- roughshed
- raughshed
- roushod
Etymology of ROUGHSHOD
The word "roughshod" originates from the earlier phrase "to ride roughshod over someone". It was first used in the English language around the 17th century. The term originally referred to the practice of affixing sharp iron projections called calkins or caulks onto horseshoes for added traction. These calks made the horse's gait uneven and uncomfortable for anyone who rode behind. As a result, "riding roughshod over someone" came to symbolize a superior or overpowering attitude, disregarding the concerns or feelings of others. Over time, "roughshod" gradually transitioned into a standalone adjective, retaining its meaning of acting without regard for others or their opinions.
Idioms with the word ROUGHSHOD
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ride roughshod over
The idiom "ride roughshod over" means to dominate or disregard the feelings, rights, or opinions of others in a forceful and insensitive manner. It implies the act of acting or advancing without concern for potential consequences or without regard for opposing viewpoints or objections.
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ride roughshod over sth/sb
The idiom "ride roughshod over something/somebody" means to disregard or ignore the thoughts, opinions, or feelings of others and to act in an overbearing or domineering manner, usually for personal gain or without considering the consequences. It implies a sense of trampling or overpowering others without regard for their rights or interests.
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ride roughshod over sb/sth
The idiom "ride roughshod over someone/something" means to treat someone or something with disrespect, disregard their feelings or opinions, and act forcefully without considering their views or interests. It implies using one's power, authority, or dominance to overpower others without concern for their well-being or rights.
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ride roughshod over (someone or something)
The idiom "ride roughshod over (someone or something)" means to act in a forceful and unchecked manner, disregarding the feelings, opinions, or rights of others. It implies a dominant or controlling behavior where someone ignores or tramples upon the concerns or objections of others with little to no regard for their well-being or wishes.
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ride roughshod over sm or sth
The idiom "ride roughshod over someone or something" means to act in a forceful or arrogant manner without regard for the feelings, opinions, or rights of others. It refers to someone who exercises power or authority aggressively and disregards any opposing views or objections.
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