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Definitions

hardened

[hahr-dnd] / ˈhɑr dnd /
ADJECTIVE
unfeeling
Synonyms
STRONGEST
coldhearted seasoned
STRONG
accustomed benumbed callous habituated indurated inured prepared steeled toughened unbending
WEAK
case-hardened contemptuous cruel disdainful hard as nails hard-bitten hard-boiled hardhearted heartless impenetrable impious inaccessible irreverent obdurate obtuse resistant unashamed uncaring uncompassionate unemotional unrepenting unsubmissive
Antonyms
WEAK
compassionate feeling kind nice sympathetic

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.

“It hardened the resolve in the region and cemented the alignment within the Gulf with the U.S.”

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

We have hardened our infrastructure and built an oil pipeline to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

Demands have also hardened on the other side.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Shredded cheese can also be whisked in or sprinkled immediately after the egg mixture hits the pan to create a slightly hardened top layer.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

Its thin leather strap stretched from being fastened around the waist to the last hole, and was now a hardened leather with a blinding, mean snap.

From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia