rough it rough it {v. phr.} To live like primitive people; live with little of the comfort and equipment of civilization. Scouts like to rough it in the woods on weekend hikes. Categories: add yours {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: R Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Add my comment