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.

If Powell stays, that arithmetic becomes even harder, and it could stiffen the resolve of other governors whose terms run beyond Powell’s, said Wilcox.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

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

This involves the buildup of dense, fibrous tissue around the tumor, made up of cells and proteins that stiffen and inflame the area.

From Science Daily • Jan. 30, 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

I feel Tao stiffen against me for a moment, his heart pattering against my ear before he relaxes again.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray