case-harden

verb

1. metallurgy to form a hard surface layer of high carbon content on (a steel component) by heating in a carburizing environment with subsequent quenching or heat treatment
2. to harden the spirit or disposition of; make callous

   experience had case-hardened the judge

Example Sentences

Many woods, however, check severely in air-drying or case-harden in the air.

From Project Gutenberg