Diamond in the rough 

Someone (or something) that has hidden exceptional characteristics and/or future potential, but currently lacks the final touches that would make them (or it) truly stand out from the crowd.

The phrase is metaphorical and relates to the fact that naturally occurring diamonds are quite ordinary at first glance, and that their true beauty as jewels is only realized through the cutting and polishing process.

She may seem shy and ordinary right now, but give her a couple more years - she truly is a diamond in the rough.

Diamond in the rough by Ainz January 24, 2006

Diamond in the rough 

a person who appears dubious at first but turns out to be exceptional

She thought he looked like a geek at first but he turned out to be a diamond in the rough.

Diamond in the rough by Light Joker February 15, 2007

diamond in the rough 

The person that is the equivalent to a diamond in the middle of all the bad things.

Harry is my diamond in the rough.

diamond in the rough by LACIENBRAN October 15, 2012

Diamond in the rough 

One whose worth lies far within

Only one may enter here. One whose worth lies far within. The diamond in the rough.

Diamond in the rough by sanchopancho02 June 21, 2021

diamond in the rough 

Someone that falls into unfortunate circumstances but works to better themselves, whether it be the homeless, imprisoned etc.

I love JJ, although he's in prison, he's got potential, he's my diamond in the rough.

diamond in the rough by goodsam March 25, 2008

Diamond in the rough 

1. A good athlete that was either undrafted or chosen late in the draft
2. Someone good at something that hangs out with bad people who are bad at it

1. Ben Wallace, an undrafted basketball player has been named defensive player or the year.
2. The lead singer Michael, was the diamond in the rough in the garage band

Diamond in the rough by Tore a Bore a May 30, 2004

diamond in the rough 

A girl/guy who is fine as hell, but lives in the ghetto or has ghetto tendencies due in part because they lived and were raised in the ghetto.

Guy 1: I can't believe that a girl that fine lives in a ghetto ass neighborhood.

Guy 2: She's definitely hot! She's a diamond in the rough.

diamond in the rough by Chris E. January 12, 2006