1
as in strengthening
to increase the ability of (as a muscle) to exert physical force
weight lifting will help toughen those flabby muscles of yours
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in hardening
to make able to withstand physical hardship, strain, or exposure
hiking every morning through snow and ice toughened him considerably
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in stiffening
to make more harsh, uncompromising, or severe
attempts to toughen conditions under which waivers from military service would be permitted
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for toughening
Verb
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Tuesday was filled with intensive coaching and mentorship sessions with Walmart and Sam's Club merchants, sourcing experts and past Open Call alumni about scaling up production, improving packaging, and strengthening their financial and operational readiness.—
Serenah McKay,
Arkansas Online,
11 Oct. 2025 -
Aside from strengthening the body and improving posture, practicing downward dog also activates blood circulation and may improve digestion.—
Ana Morales,
Vogue,
11 Oct. 2025
Verb
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Over time, this plaque buildup can lead to hardening and narrowing of the arteries.—
Angelica Bottaro,
Verywell Health,
6 Oct. 2025
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Meanwhile, hardening facilities is expensive—and the money could be used for more lucrative ventures.—
Justin Worland,
Time,
3 Oct. 2025
Verb
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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
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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
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Cite this Entry
“Toughening.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/toughening. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.
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