Hardscrabble (adjective)

Characterized by hard work and struggle for survival.

Origin:

From the combination of the words hard + scrabble, which means characterized by hard work and struggle for survival.

Examples:

1. They had a hardscrabble life on the farm.
2. The hardscrabble existence made him appreciate the simple things in life.
3. The hardscrabble years taught her the value of hard work and determination.
4. He had a hardscrabble upbringing, but it made him a strong person.
5. The hardscrabble terrain made it difficult for the explorers to reach their destination.