Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

roughneck

noun

/ˈrʌfˌnɛk/

Definition

A roughneck is a person who performs labor-intensive work, particularly in the oil and gas industry.

Examples

The roughneck worked long hours under challenging conditions on the oil rig.
After years as a roughneck, he had gained a robust stature and a rugged demeanor.

Meaning

Typically, it refers to someone whose job involves working on an oil rig, often in physically demanding conditions. The term can also be used more broadly to describe a rough, tough, or crude individual.