The term 'hardly rosy-cheeked' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: SALLOW (6 letters) and PALE (4 letters). SALLOW is an adjective that describes a person or thing with a yellowish, unhealthy complexion. PALE is an adjective that describes a person or thing with a lack of color in the skin, usually due to illness or shock. Together, these two words describe someone who is not healthy or vibrant, and has a complexion that is far from rosy-cheeked.