Ride roughshod
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
To act harshly or without care, trampling over others.
Origin
From 17th-century England, tied to cavalry; 'roughshod' horses had nailed shoes for grip, slang by 1680s for brutal rule. A 1810 Scott novel uses it for a tyrant's ride.
Usage Examples
- He rode roughshod over their objections.
- She rides roughshod; no one dares argue.
- They rode roughshod through the rules.
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