stiffen

verb

ˈsti-fən How to pronounce stiffen (audio)
Definition of stiffennext
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 For seven-and-a-half years, Ladd had dealt with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a progressive lung disease that stiffens and scars the lungs. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 24 June 2026 Major media companies operating traditional linear networks have been under pressure in recent years amid stiffening competition from large tech rivals as programming migrates to streaming. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 18 June 2026 To execute its ruthless 66-pound weight loss program, the rear seats have been completely deleted, replaced by a massive structural strut brace that significantly stiffens the chassis. — Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026 The moose flinched and stiffened. — Fred Bear, Outdoor Life, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stiffen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stiffen
strengthen
Verb
  • Rohlfing has also pledged to strengthen core county services, including public safety, infrastructure and public works, while promoting a more business-friendly environment to attract and retain employers.
    — Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2026
  • The local manufacturing requirement is intended to strengthen Greece’s domestic defence sector while reducing dependence on foreign suppliers over the long term.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 25 July 2026
Definition of strengthen

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stiffed
stiffen
stiffened
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Cite this Entry

“Stiffen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stiffen. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on stiffen

Nglish: Translation of stiffen for Spanish Speakers

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