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Definition of stiffen

stiffen

/ˈstɪf.ən/
stif · fen
Adverb:stiffly
•
Adjective:stiff
•
Past Simple:stiffened
•
Past Participle:stiffened
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Present Participle:stiffening
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stiffen Lexical Profile

stiffen Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make or become rigid, firm, or inflexible.

Example

"The tailor used heavy interfacing to stiffen the collar of the jacket."

2

To suddenly tense one's body or muscles, especially in reaction to fear, shock, or anger.

Example

"She felt her shoulders stiffen as she heard footsteps approaching in the dark hallway."

3

To make or become stronger, more severe, or more resolute (such as penalties, resistance, or wind).

Example

"The unexpected setback only served to stiffen their resolve to complete the expedition."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for stiffen

• Nearby Words

sticky
stickybeak
stiff
stiffen
stiffener
stiffening
stiffly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'stiff' (from Old English 'stīf', meaning rigid or inflexible) combined with the verbal suffix '-en'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Stiffen. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/stiffen
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