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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.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has said that young people should stiffen their spines and embrace hardship.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 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

Calling the eradication of extortion “one of the great challenges” facing Mexico, Sheinbaum pledged to bolster enforcement, stiffen penalties and increase safeguards for anyone receiving threats.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2025

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

She saw him stiffen himself all over as he leveled and took aim.

From "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston

Vocabulary lists containing stiffen

Mid-Air

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