1. diamond in the rough - Noun
2. diamond in the rough - Phrase
An uncut diamond.
(figuratively) A person whose goodness or other positive qualities are hidden by a harsh or unremarkable surface appearance.
Synonym: rough diamond
The auto mechanic is a diamond in the rough, tough-talking, but honest, even generous.
Anyone can be confident with a full head of hair. But a confident bald man - there's your diamond in the rough. Larry David
You can find a diamond in the rough a lot of times. Babyface
Unfortunately, a lot of executives aren't like producers, and can't hear the diamond in the rough. Babyface
To be a gentleman does not depend upon the tailor or the toilet. Good clothes are not good habits. A gentleman is just a gentle-man, - no more, no less; a diamond polished, that was first a diamond in the rough. William Croswell Doane
Yeah, it's tough being smart and sexy, too. I have to say, I'm really not that attractive. Until I met my husband, I could not get a date. I promise you it's true. My husband Jeff Richmond saw a diamond in the rough and took me in. Tina Fey
Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough. Mary McLeod Bethune