This is the 13011th most frequent German word.
zähen
"Zähen" is the inflected form of "zäh," meaning "tough," "tenacious," or "resilient."
Used to describe the texture or difficulty of chewing meat.
Das Fleisch ist sehr zäh.
The meat is very tough.
Used metaphorically to describe a situation that is challenging or arduous.
Die Verhandlungen waren zäh und langwierig.
The negotiations were tough and prolonged.
Used to metaphorically describe resilience or firmness in an opposing force.