Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hard-knock

adjective

/hɑrd nɒk/

Definition

A tough or difficult experience, often used to describe a life filled with hardships.

Examples

She grew up in a hard-knock neighborhood, where few had the luxury of a stable home.
His hard-knock life made him resilient and determined to succeed.
They often tell stories of their hard-knock experiences, highlighting the challenges they overcame.

Meaning

The term ‘hard-knock’ refers to the challenges and adversities one faces, especially in the context of upbringing or life experiences that are rough or unprivileged.