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Definitions

stiffen

[stif-uhn] / ˈstɪf ən /
VERB
make or become harder
Synonyms
STRONGEST
reinforce solidify stabilize strengthen
STRONG
anneal benumb brace cake candy cement chill clot coagulate condense congeal crystallize curdle firm fix freeze gel harden inflate inspissate jell jelly ossify petrify precipitate prop set starch steady tauten tense thicken
Antonyms
STRONGEST
weaken
STRONG
dilute dissolve heat liquefy melt separate soften thin unfix
WEAK
loosen

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

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

This leads the muscles to weaken and stiffen over time and ultimately impacts how you walk, talk, eat and breathe.

From BBC • Dec. 4, 2025

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

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2025

I felt her stiffen away when 1 touched her.

From "A Farewell To Arms" by Ernest Hemingway

Vocabulary lists containing stiffen

Mid-Air

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