as in freezing
to become physically firm or solid
wait for the modeling clay to firm up before handling the finished pot
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for firming (up)
Verb
-
One of the most common was broken or outdated HVAC systems, often an expensive upgrade; freezing or overheated classrooms can be especially hard on students who can’t regulate their body temperatures, such as children with Down syndrome.—
Becca Savransky,
Idaho Statesman,
15 Oct. 2025 -
The most active period for tree sap flow is late winter or spring, when temperatures fluctuate widely between freezing nights and warm days.—
Mary Marlowe Leverette,
Southern Living,
15 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
Over time, this plaque buildup can lead to hardening and narrowing of the arteries.—
Angelica Bottaro,
Verywell Health,
6 Oct. 2025
-
Meanwhile, hardening facilities is expensive—and the money could be used for more lucrative ventures.—
Justin Worland,
Time,
3 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
Afterwards, a squaring solution—a powdery mixture of water and a gel-like batter used in the decorative cake business—is applied to the inside of the hat’s crown to act as a stiffening agent.—
Eric Twardzik,
Robb Report,
3 Oct. 2025
-
China has been a consistent source of stress for Apple, given the stiffening smartphone competition and its huge manufacturing presence in the country.—
Morgan Chittum,
CNBC,
15 Sep. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Cite this Entry
“Firming (up).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/firming%20%28up%29. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share