Stiffening: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when indicating that something is becoming more rigid or less flexible, often referring to fabrics, paper, or body muscles.

• The cold weather is stiffening my joints.
• The starch is for stiffening the shirt collars.

Used when something is becoming stronger or more powerful, commonly referring to physical strength, systems, or relationships.

• She is strengthening her muscles through regular exercise.
• The government is strengthening its cybersecurity measures.

Used when something is becoming solid, firm, or more severe, often referring to materials, hearts, or attitudes.

• The cement is hardening quickly.
• Years of hardships led to the hardening of his heart.

Used when a liquid is turning into a solid or when an abstract concept, like a plan or relationship, is becoming more definite.

• The molten lava is solidifying into rock.
• They are solidifying their plans for the project.

This term is generally utilized in contexts discussing materials or physical reactions where there is an increase in firmness or hardness over time.

• After the application of the solution, a stiffening of the fabric was observed
• The stiffening of the structure was necessary for increased support

Rigidity is used to describe a strict or unchanging state, often with a negative connotation when referring to attitudes or systems. It can also relate to physical objects that do not bend.

• The rigidity of the rules left no room for creativity
• The rigidity of the metal frame ensures its structural integrity

Immobility is commonly used to describe a state where movement is completely restrained or impossible. It is frequently used in medical settings or to describe machinery.

• Prolonged immobility can lead to bedsores
• The immobility of the robot indicates a mechanical failure

Inflexibility refers to the inability to bend or adapt, both in physical and metaphorical senses. This word can be applied to rigid schedules, unyielding personalities, or physical stiffness.

• His inflexibility in negotiations made it hard to reach an agreement
• The inflexibility of the plastic material limits its use

This word is often used when talking about making something less flexible or rigid. It can be applied to both physical objects and abstract concepts, like attitudes or policies.

• The material began stiffening as the temperature dropped
• The government's position on the issue is stiffening

Often used when talking about making something stronger or more robust. This could be applied to muscles, structures, arguments, or relationships.

• He exercises regularly to strengthen his muscles
• The new policy aims to strengthen community ties

Used when referring to making something physically hard or tough. It can also have a metaphorical use when talking about emotions or attitudes becoming less sympathetic.

• The clay will harden if you leave it out too long
• His heart seemed to harden after the betrayal

Typically used in scientific contexts or when discussing processes where liquids turn into solids. Can also be used metaphorically to mean making an idea or plan more definite.

• The lava will cool and solidify into rock
• They need to solidify their plans for the project