harshened

past tense of harshen
as in strengthened
to make more harsh, uncompromising, or severe recent changes to the drunk driving laws harshen penalties for repeat offenders

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for harshened
Verb
  • Engaging in such activities strengthened connections between different areas of their brain.
    Big Think, Big Think, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Japan and South Korea, United States security allies in Northeast Asia, have recently strengthened their mine warfare capabilities amid China's growing naval presence.
    Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Drew stiffened as Theo Wiggins headed his way.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 Oct. 2025
  • McDaniel made the point that the Dolphins’ defensive line and run defense stiffened somewhat after struggling badly on the first drive.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 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.

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Cite this Entry

“Harshened.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshened. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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