toughen

verb

tough·​en ˈtə-fən 

toughened; toughening ˈtə-fə-niŋ 

ˈtəf-niŋ

transitive verb

: to make tough

intransitive verb

: to become tough

Synonyms of toughen

• strengthen
• harden

Examples of toughen in a Sentence

The government is toughening antidrug laws.

weight lifting will help toughen those flabby muscles of yours

Recent Examples on the Web

Their rugged shape acts as a welcome counterpoint, toughening up outfits with a particular cool girl edge. — Nuria Luis, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026

Be careful with reheating it, because a few minutes too long and the pastry will toughen. — Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Oct. 2026

The act, named in honor of a slain parole agent, aims to toughen enforcement of safety rules for state and local government workers. — William J. Ford, Baltimore Sun, 8 Oct. 2026

His campaign puts security front and center, with promises to lower the age of criminal responsibility and toughen the response to violent crime. — Alessandra Freitas, CNN Money, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for toughen

• muffin

Kids Definition

toughen

verb

tough·​en ˈtəf-ən 

toughened; toughening ˈtəf-(ə-)niŋ 

: to make or become tough