Hardener: meaning, definitions and examples

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hardener

 

[ ˈhɑːrdənər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

materials science

A hardener is a substance that is added to a solution to increase its adhesive or cohesive properties, typically by curing it into a solid state. In the context of paints and coatings, hardeners facilitate the drying process, resulting in a tougher surface. They are commonly used in conjunction with resins in various applications such as construction, arts and crafts, and automotive finishes. The effectiveness of a hardener often depends on its chemical composition and the conditions under which it is used.

Synonyms

accelerator, catalyst, curing agent.

Examples of usage

  • The painter used a hardener to ensure the paint dried quickly.
  • Adding a hardener to the epoxy made it suitable for outdoor use.
  • The sculptor selected a hardener for the resin to achieve durability.
  • For this project, a highly effective hardener is essential to maintain the structural integrity.

Translations

Translations of the word "hardener" in other languages:

🇵🇹 endurecedor

🇮🇳 कठोरक

🇩🇪 Härtungsmittel

🇮🇩 penguat

🇺🇦 затверджувач

🇵🇱 utwardzacz

🇯🇵 硬化剤

🇫🇷 durcisseur

🇪🇸 endurecedor

🇹🇷 sertleştirici

🇰🇷 경화제

🇸🇦 مُصلِب

🇨🇿 tvrdidlo

🇸🇰 tvrdidlo

🇨🇳 硬化剂

🇸🇮 utrjevalec

🇮🇸 härðari

🇰🇿 қаттылағыш

🇬🇪 მკაცრებელი

🇦🇿 sıxlaşdırıcı

🇲🇽 endurecedor

Etymology

The word 'hardener' stems from the verb 'harden', which has its roots in Old English 'hyrdan', meaning 'to make hard or solid'. This term evolved over centuries, with its current form consolidating in the 19th century as chemical applications became more advanced. The suffix '-er' is commonly used in English to indicate an agent or something that performs a specified action. Therefore, a hardener is literally one who or that which hardens. The usage of the term has expanded with the growth of industries that utilize polymers and coatings, leading to a need for more specific vocabulary pertaining to materials science.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,390 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.