harshened

Definition of harshenednext
past tense of harshen
as in strengthened
to make more harsh, uncompromising, or severe recent changes to the drunk driving laws harshen penalties for repeat offenders

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for harshened
Verb
  • An historic meeting the president said strengthened ties between the two nations, but which did not produce a major agreement on trade or a commitment from China to help end the war with Iran.
    NBC news, NBC news, 17 May 2026
  • The country’s residency pathways and growing digital nomad infrastructure have further strengthened its popularity among remote workers and retirees alike.
    Meggen Harris, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026
Verb
  • His eyes locked to the right, his tiny body stiffened and his face turned red.
    Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026
  • There was a sudden spring shower, which stiffened into rain.
    Sam Knight, New Yorker, 14 May 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Harshened.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshened. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

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