a tough cookie

tough cookie

A strong, determined person who is not easily intimidated, discouraged, or defeated. Our principal was a little lady, but she was one tough cookie! She had a difficult childhood, but she's a tough cookie. I know she'll be a success.
See also: cookie, tough
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

a tough cookie

or

one tough cookie

If someone is a tough cookie or one tough cookie, they are confident, brave and determined. A pushover is not how I'd describe her. Behind that sweet smile, there lies a tough cookie. He has a reputation as one tough cookie.
See also: cookie, tough
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

a tough ˈcustomer/ˈcookie

(informal) a person who knows what they want and is not easily influenced by other people: Self-confident, ambitious and positive, Paula is a tough cookie who is bound to do well.
See also: cookie, customer, tough
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
See also:
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