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hardness

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noun hard·ness \ ˈhärd-nəs \

Definition of hardness

1 :the quality or state of being hard
2 a :the cohesion of the particles on the surface of a mineral as determined by its capacity to scratch another or be itself scratched — compare mohs' scale
b :resistance of metal to indentation under a static load or to scratching

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Examples of hardness in a Sentence

  1. the hardness of a diamond

  2. The wood's hardness makes it suitable for carving.

Recent Examples of hardness from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'hardness.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of hardness

before 12th century

hardness Synonyms

Synonyms
adversity, asperity, difficulty, hardship, rigor
Antonyms
flexibility, gentleness, laxness, mildness
Related Words
discomfort, inconvenience, nuisance; affliction, trial, tribulation; knock, misfortune, mishap, tragedy; bar, catch, check, clog, crimp, embarrassment, handicap, hindrance, hitch, hurdle, impediment, interference, let, manacle, obstacle, obstruction, pons asinorum, rub, shackle, snag, stop, trammel; block, chain, deterrent, encumbrance, fetter, inhibition; hump
Near Antonyms
advantage, break, opportunity

HARDNESS Defined for English Language Learners

hardness

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noun

Definition of hardness for English Language Learners

  • : the quality or state of being hard

Learn More about hardness

  1. Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for hardness Spanish Central: Translation of hardness Nglish: Translation of hardness for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of hardness for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hardness

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Examples: hardness in a Sentence