Pronunciation

/stɪfən/

Definitions

• Verb:
  • Transitive verb: To become harder or more rigid in texture, shape, or attitude; to strengthen or firm up. Example: “The wood stiffened after being left outside in the rain.”
  • Intransitive verb: To become tense or unyielding, especially emotionally or mentally. Example: “She stiffened when she heard the bad news.”

Phrases

• “Stiffen up” means to become more rigid or upright.
• “Stiffen with cold” refers to becoming stiff due to cold temperatures.
• “Stiffen the competition” can mean to increase the challenge or make others work harder.

Example Sentences

• Transitive: “The paint on the old house had begun to stiffen from exposure to the elements.”
• Intransitive: “His resolve stiffened when faced with adversity.”
• “The muscles in her neck stiffened as she read the difficult passage.”

Synonyms

• Harden
• Tighten
• Reinforce
• Grow rigid
• Become inflexible

Antonyms

• Relax
• Soften
• Weaken
• Become pliable
• Loosen