rough, harsh, uneven, rugged, scabrous mean not smooth or even. rough implies points, bristles, ridges, or projections on the surface. harsh implies a surface or texture distinctly unpleasant to …

HARSH definition: 1. unpleasant, unkind, cruel, or more severe than is necessary: 2. too strong, bright, loud, etc…. Learn more.

HARSH definition: ungentle and unpleasant in action or effect. See examples of harsh used in a sentence.

1. ungentle and unpleasant in action or effect: harsh treatment. 2. grim or unpleasantly severe; stern; cruel; austere: a harsh master. 3. physically uncomfortable; desolate; stark: a harsh …

Something that is harsh is so hard, bright, or rough that it seems unpleasant or harmful. Tropical colors may look rather harsh in our dull northern light.

Nov 28, 2025 · Adjective harsh (comparative harsher or more harsh, superlative harshest or most harsh) Unpleasantly rough to the touch or other senses.

Jul 24, 2025 · ‘Harsh’ means excessively rough, severe, or unkind. It can refer to sound, weather, judgment, or interpersonal behavior that is intense, abrasive, or lacking gentleness.

harsh′ly, adv. harsh′ness, n. 2. brusque, hard, unfeeling, unkind, brutal, acrimonious, bad-tempered. See stern 1. 3. rough. 4. discordant, dissonant, unharmonious. 6. unesthetic.

Some common synonyms of harsh are rough, rugged, scabrous, and uneven. While all these words mean "not smooth or even," harsh implies a surface or texture distinctly unpleasant to …

harsh adjective (DIFFICULT) very cold, dangerous, or unpleasant and difficult to live in: harsh conditions