diamond in the rough

noun phrase

: one having exceptional qualities or potential but lacking refinement or polish

Examples of diamond in the rough in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This under-$50, 100 percent wool sweater is an Amazon diamond in the rough. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 25 Aug. 2026 Before joining the Red Sox organization, Danny Kirwin demonstrated persistence and a fastball that appeared to be a diamond in the rough. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 A man of the people, a working-class hero, a diamond in the rough unearthed by political operatives riding the high of Mamdani’s rise—the narrative, in and of itself, was a winning strategy. — Brady Brickner-Wood, New Yorker, 15 July 2026 But underneath her sad and filthy exterior, rescuers discovered an incredible diamond in the rough. — News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for diamond in the rough

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of diamond in the rough was in 1785

Rhymes for diamond in the rough

See All Rhymes for diamond in the rough

Browse Nearby Words

diamond indentor
diamond in the rough
diamondize
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Diamond in the rough.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diamond%20in%20the%20rough. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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