toughen

[ tuhf-uhn ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become tough or tougher.

   Synonyms: stiffen, strengthen, firm, harden

toughen

/ ˈtʌfən /

verb

1. to make or become tough or tougher

Other Words From

• toughen·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of toughen¹

First recorded in 1575–85; tough + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Some campaigners argue the OSA does not go far enough, and will need to be toughened or supplemented with other restrictions, for example on mobile phone use by young people.

From BBC

But those measures didn’t really toughen sentences and voters ignored them.

From Los Angeles Times

South Gate has more balance and was toughened up playing in the Eastern League.

From Los Angeles Times

Levin was one of several Democrats in swing districts who took a more vocal stance on toughening border security this year.

From Los Angeles Times

Before July's general election, Labour pledged to toughen existing Tory plans to abolish non-dom tax status.

From BBC

Related Words

• strengthen