STIFFEN Synonyms: 9 Similar and Opposite Words

stiffen

verb

ˈsti-fən

as in to strengthen

to make more harsh, uncompromising, or severe plans to further stiffen the already onerous requirements for admission to the elite military unit

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of stiffen Golden State’s schedule stiffens with an upcoming trip to New York and Indiana. —

Nathan Canilao, Mercury News, 14 May 2026 There was a sudden spring shower, which stiffened into rain. —

Sam Knight, New Yorker, 14 May 2026 All of them will serve to stiffen fabric, create crisp lines, and make your garment more stain-resistant. —

Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 10 May 2026 The rings arise because the metal softens as the can compresses, then stiffens, then compresses and stiffens again, repeating the pattern until the compression is complete—akin to something called homoclinic snaking. —

ArsTechnica, 2 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for stiffen

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stiffen

strengthen

Verb

Environmental advocates, however, argue the RMP helps protects residents near chemical facilities by requiring preventative safety measures and should be strengthened and expanded, according to the Coalition to Prevent Chemical Disasters.

— Jason Henry, Oc Register, 30 May 2026
Still, the web will likely remain heavily censored, experts warned; Tehran is reportedly using Chinese hardware to strengthen its censorship capabilities, further proof that Beijing is exporting the technology that powers its cutting-edge firewall.

— semafor.com, semafor.com, 29 May 2026