toughie

Something that is tough, or difficult.

His question is a toughie. I might have to do some more research.

Someone or something that is strong and resilient.

Sansevieria and aspidistra are two old houseplant toughies that make good indoor choices.

With typical courage she had taken hold of her life and changed it for the better. She always was a brave little toughie, and now her courage had paid off.

A tough; Someone or something that acts as a thug or bully.

The liberal states, in the present situation, are the "softies"; the Fascist states are the "toughies". And the toughies are always able to get away with "murder" until the softies become tough.

But we knew she would follow how and why my student and I would immediately detect the similarity in our situation from the studied calmness we had both displayed toward the havoc roused by the toughies to intimidate the new female temporary teacher.