Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

toughening

  • present participle
    of toughen.
    toughen
    verb (used with or without object)
    to make or become tough or tougher.

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.

See Examples For:

McVay understands that the “old-school way” of toughening and preparing players for a season can be achieved without “killing us on the field,” Adams said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 5, 2026

Whilst countries differ in their approaches to tackling antisemitism – from toughening laws to improving education – they also identify common experiences, with near universal concern about the role of social media and artificial intelligence.

From BBC ● Jul. 29, 2026

Other states are considering following the lead of Oregon and California by toughening restrictions on corporate medicine.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 14, 2026

Several nations are toughening up age restrictions on social media platforms as concerns grow over excessive screen time for children and their exposure to harmful content online.

From Barron's ● Mar. 11, 2026

“He needs some toughening up—y’all being too soft on him!”

From "Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky" by Kwame Mbalia