harden (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈhɑːrdn/

Definition

To make or become firm, solid, or hard.

Examples

• The concrete will harden overnight.

• His skin had hardened from years of manual labor.

• The artist hardened the clay by firing it in a kiln.

How to Use harden

harden into (prepositional phrase)

To gradually become something else. — "The soft clay will harden into a brick."

harden off (phrasal verb)

To gradually expose young plants to outdoor conditions to make them stronger. — "Remember to harden off your tomato plants before transplanting them."

harden someone's heart (idiom)

To make someone less sympathetic or forgiving. — "His constant complaining seemed to harden her heart."

Synonyms of harden

Words with a similar meaning to harden:

• set
• solidify
• temper

Antonyms of harden

Words with the opposite meaning to harden:

• soften
• weaken

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