Stubbled describes skin covered with short, rough hairs that have started growing back after being shaved. When your dad hasn't shaved for a day or two, his chin and cheeks might feel scratchy with stubble, those tiny, prickly hairs poking out.

You'll often see stubbled used to describe a character's appearance in stories: “The detective rubbed his stubbled chin as he thought about the mystery.” It creates a picture of someone who's been working hard or hasn't had time to shave, giving them a slightly rough, worn look. Athletes after a long competition, hikers returning from a wilderness trip, or anyone focused on something more important than grooming might have a stubbled face.