hardening

[ hahr-dn-ing ]

noun

1. a material that hardens another, as an alloy added to iron to make steel.
2. the process of becoming hard or rigid.

hardening

/ ˈhɑːdənɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or process of becoming or making hard
2. a substance added to another substance or material to make it harder

Word History and Origins

Origin of hardening¹

First recorded in 1620–30; harden + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, who represents the central San Fernando Valley, said Tuesday that the city is “hardening our defenses” in the face of Trump’s election.

From Los Angeles Times

She fears for her son's future in a polarised society where the lines of division seem to be hardening.

From BBC

“It’s neither” pure chance which homes burn nor completely determined by which home hardening measures were taken, she said.

From Los Angeles Times

Those we met told us attitudes towards immigration were hardening in France, with right-wing parties wielding more influence.

From BBC

Even at a time of hardening public attitudes toward illegal immigration, these students who came here unwittingly through no fault of their own draw widespread sympathy and support.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• crystallization