harshening

present participle of harshen
as in strengthening
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 harshening
Verb
  • The company’s 100 or so coaches primarily offer services within the romantic relationship context, from relationship strengthening to help for those looking to find a partner.
    Gili Malinsky, CNBC, 18 Oct. 2025
  • If a player had a weak hamstring, a strengthening programme would be put in place; the same can and should apply to the pelvic floor.
    Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 17 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.

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Cite this Entry

“Harshening.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshening. Accessed 25 Oct. 2025.

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