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May 23, 2012 · The original literal meaning of “to ride roughshod” was far more brutal. In the 17th century, a horse that was “roughshod” was shod with horseshoes with the nailheads, or sometimes metal points, projecting from the bottom of the shoe.
To treat someone or something with marked disdain, brutality, or contempt; to act without regard for the well-being of something or someone. In her ascent to the top of the political ladder, the senator rode roughshod over anyone who stood in her way.
To treat someone or something with marked disdain, brutality, or contempt; to act without regard for the well-being of something or someone. In her ascent to the top of the political ladder, the senator rode roughshod over anyone who stood in her way.
phrase. If you say that someone is riding roughshod over a person or their views, you disapprove of them because they are using their power or authority to do what they want, completely ignoring that person's wishes. [disapproval] The security forces rode roughshod over the human rights of the people. See full dictionary entry for roughshod.
Act without regard for the feelings or interests of others, as in She just forges on, riding roughshod over her colleagues . This term alludes to the practice of arming horses with horseshoes mounted with projecting nails or points, which both gave them better traction and served as a weapon against fallen enemy soldiers.
ride roughshod over (someone or something) To treat someone or something with marked disdain, brutality, or contempt; to act without regard for the well-being of something or someone. In her ascent to the top of the political ladder, the senator rode roughshod over anyone who stood in her way.
