stiffen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She has also vowed to stiffen prison sentences and to impose a state of emergency in areas worst hit by crime.

From Barron's • Feb. 1, 2026

The effort to scrap the provision to stiffen penalties drew sweeping criticism from the governor and on social media.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2025

Nonetheless, this is an important move that can help stiffen the spines at other schools.

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2025

The summit in London was an attempt by the prime minister both to calm diplomatic brows and stiffen diplomatic sinews.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2025

I feel Cardan stiffen beside me, because he’s an idiot and cares more about being called common than anyone’s safety, sadly even his own.

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black