stiffen

[stif-uhn]

verb (used with object)

1. to make stiff.

verb (used without object)

1. to become stiff.

2. to become suddenly tense, rigid, or taut, as in bracing oneself for or drawing back from shock, fear, or displeasure.

   He stiffened, expecting to hear the worst.

stiffen

/ ˈstɪfən /

verb

1. to make or become stiff or stiffer

2. (intr) to become suddenly tense or unyielding

Other Word Forms

• overstiffen verb
• unstiffened adjective
• stiffener noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of stiffen¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; stiff + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Mahan broke with many Democrats by vigorously supporting Proposition 36, the 2024 anti-crime measure that stiffened penalties for repeated theft and crimes involving fentanyl.

From Los Angeles Times

This leads them to weaken and stiffen over time and usually affects how you walk, talk, eat and breathe.

From BBC

It's not just in majors that Scheffler's resolve stiffens on a Sunday.

From BBC

Here, there’s actually a very good doom metal electronic score by John Murphy and David Fleming, but the movie stiffens up whenever it needs to get real.

From Los Angeles Times

When her focused gaze meets yours, a coiled look of resignation stiffens her soft face, and it is painful to see.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• reinforce 
• solidify 
• stabilize 
• strengthen