rough cut

¹ American  

noun

Movies.

1. the first assembly of a film following preliminary cutting and editing.

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rough-cut ² American  

[ruhf-kuht] / ˈrʌfˈkʌt /

adjective

1. cut into small, irregular pieces (fine-cut ).

   rough-cut tobacco.

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rough-cut British  

noun

1. a first edited version of a film with the scenes in sequence and the soundtrack synchronized

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Etymology

Origin of rough cut¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Origin of rough-cut²

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

I showed Paul 45 minutes of a very early rough cut to convince him that what we were doing was in the spirit of what we always discussed.

From Salon • May 23, 2025

He’s seen the movie only twice; once in a rough cut and then again on an airplane.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2025

The singer, who's fought her own battles against public perception, said inspiration hit her "like a tornado" after watching a rough cut of the film.

From BBC • Jul. 19, 2023

The first step in refinishing an existing hardwood floor or sanding virgin hardwood is to do a rough cut with a massive drum sander.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 26, 2023

“Which I doubt;” His voice was oddly and beautifully rough cut, as some small boys’ voices are.

From "Nine Stories" by J. D. Salinger