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
-
This means not only strengthening technical defenses but also fostering a culture of security awareness at every level.—
Bernard Marr,
Forbes,
8 Jan. 2025 -
This dynamic fosters mutual respect and curiosity, strengthening the overall mentorship culture within the organization.—
Dr. Diane Hamilton,
Forbes,
8 Jan. 2025
Verb
-
Begin hardening off the tomato seedlings a couple of weeks before the frost date in your geographical region.—
Lauren David,
Southern Living,
23 Mar. 2025
-
That statistic should serve as a wake-up call for any organization still focused on hardening its networks while neglecting the individuals who interact with them.—
Tony Bradley,
Forbes,
21 Mar. 2025
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.
Cite this Entry
“Toughening.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/toughening. Accessed 3 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share