as in strengthened
to make more harsh, uncompromising, or severe
recent changes to the drunk driving laws harshen penalties for repeat offenders
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for harshened
Verb
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These traces of self-sufficiency only strengthened the couple’s determination to preserve the site’s history.—
Abby Montanez,
Robb Report,
8 Feb. 2026 -
Gabe’s path into financial planning took shape through varied experiences that strengthened his understanding of complex systems and real-world decision-making.—
Wyles Daniel,
USA Today,
8 Feb. 2026
Verb
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As the Timberwolves’ defense stiffened, their shots finally started falling.—
Jon Krawczynski,
New York Times,
12 Jan. 2026
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Outrage from the left about that maneuver stiffened Democratic spirits for a confrontation in the fall.—
Niall Stanage,
The Hill,
31 Dec. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Harshened.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshened. Accessed 9 Feb. 2026.
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