as in strengthens
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 harshens
Verb
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Snow is expected to pile up in parts of the southern Appalachians, the Carolinas and southern Virginia late Friday night into Saturday as the storm rapidly strengthens offshore.—
Briana Waxman,
CNN Money,
30 Jan. 2026 -
Consistent, moderate exercise strengthens the immune system and reduces the frequency and severity of common illnesses.—
Fred Sassani,
Austin American Statesman,
29 Jan. 2026
Verb
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The luxury retailer, weighed down by debt, is under pressure as consumers shift their shopping habits and competition stiffens.—
Brian Womack,
Dallas Morning News,
29 Jan. 2026
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The schedule stiffens over the final four with Green Bay and Jacksonville at home, a Christmas night game at Kansas City and then Week 18 at home against the Los Angeles Chargers.—
Parker Gabriel,
Denver Post,
30 Nov. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Harshens.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshens. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.
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