as in strengthening
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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for harshening
Verb
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This unique capability supports readiness while strengthening the industrial base and bringing certainty to modernization.—
Prabhat Ranjan Mishra,
Interesting Engineering,
3 June 2026 -
Bell unspooled an agenda centered on improving graduation rates and job placement, strengthening athletics, enhancing Greek life and the broader student experience, recruiting top faculty and expanding UF’s academic medical enterprise.—
Garrett Shanley,
Miami Herald,
3 June 2026
Verb
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Chronic inflammation damages blood vessels, stiffening them and increasing resistance.—
Jennifer Berger,
Verywell Health,
1 June 2026
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The machine dryer agitates the clothing and prevents fibers from stiffening during drying, which is why clothing comes out feeling soft.—
Emily Benda Gaylord,
The Spruce,
23 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Harshening.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshening. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.
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