toughen
verb (used with or without object)
have toughened
-
present perfectof toughen.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Europe, where governments have toughened their policies under pressure from the far right, "cannot claim to uphold human dignity while growing accustomed to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic becoming unmarked graves", he said.
From Barron's ● Jun. 12, 2026
Many airlines have toughened rules on power banks, often requiring that they be stored in hand luggage because of the risk of lithium-ion batteries catching fire.
From BBC ● May 24, 2026
Years on the streets have toughened Ellis as much as they’ve depleted him; they’ve also fueled his determination to push past his limits.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 17, 2022
The experience is said to have toughened Xi and given him an understanding of the struggles of the rural population.
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 14, 2022
He had sometimes thought that having six brothers must have toughened her up.
From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling
