1. The Culinary Connection:
* The most prevalent theory suggests that the idiom derives from the hardness of certain cookies. These "tough cookies" could be associated with:
* Biscuits or crackers: These were often made with hard, unyielding dough, and were meant to be durable for long journeys or storage.
* Gingerbread: This type of cookie was traditionally quite hard and could be challenging to eat.
2. The "Tough" Attribute:
* The term "tough" is often associated with strength, resilience, and endurance. This could have been extended to describe someone who is "tough" as a "tough cookie" - meaning they are strong-willed and capable of handling difficult situations.
3. The "Cookie Cutter" Analogy:
* The idiom "tough cookie" may also have evolved from the notion of someone not conforming to the "cookie cutter" mold. This could imply an individual who is independent, strong-minded, and unwilling to be easily manipulated.
4. The "Tough Cookie" as a Person:
* There is a chance that the idiom originated from a specific person who was known for their toughness. Perhaps a real-life "tough cookie" became a local legend, inspiring the use of the phrase.
Regardless of the exact origin, the idiom "tough cookie" has been used consistently since the 1920s. It is often used to describe someone who is:
* Resilient: Able to cope with hardship.
* Independent: Unlikely to be easily influenced.
* Determined: Not giving up easily.
While the exact origin might be lost to time, the idiom remains a popular and effective way to describe a strong and unwavering individual.