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Toughened Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ช
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toughened

[หˆtสŒfษ™nd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

material quality

Toughened refers to something made more durable or resilient, particularly in terms of materials that withstand stress or impact. This term is often used in the context of glass and metals, signifying a process that enhances their strength without compromising their functionality.

Synonyms

hardened, reinforced, robust, strengthened.

Examples of usage

  • The toughened glass was resistant to shattering.
  • They used toughened steel for the construction.
  • This toughened material is ideal for outdoor use.
Context #2 | Verb

emotional resilience

To toughen can also mean to make someone or something emotionally or mentally resilient. It refers to the process of becoming more stoic or less affected by adversity, often through experience or rigorous training.

Synonyms

fortify, harden, prepare, strengthen.

Examples of usage

  • She toughened up after facing numerous challenges.
  • He was toughened by years of experience.
  • The training helped to toughen the recruits.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Toughened glass is produced by heating it to high temperatures and then rapidly cooling it, making it shatter-resistant.
  • Materials like steel can be toughened through heat treatment processes that enhance their strength and resistance to deformation.
  • In biology, organisms can be toughened through adaptation, helping them survive in challenging environments.

Psychology

  • Emotionally toughened individuals often exhibit resilience, bouncing back from adversity more effectively.
  • Psychological toughness is associated with focus, confidence, and the ability to cope with pressure.
  • Training in sports often aims to toughen athletes mentally and physically, preparing them for competitive challenges.

Pop Culture

  • In films, characters often undergo a 'toughening' process, aimed at enhancing their skills to fight against villains.
  • The phrase 'what doesn't kill you makes you tougher' is popularized by music, emphasizing personal growth through hardship.
  • Toughened characters are often featured in action genres, showcasing strength and resilience against overwhelming odds.

Art

  • Artisans create toughened pottery that can withstand thermal shock, making them more durable for everyday use.
  • In sculpture, toughened materials like resin are often used to achieve striking forms with lasting durability.
  • Toughening techniques are applied in mixed media art to enhance the longevity and resilience of artworks.

Origin of 'toughened'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'toughened' originates from the Old English word 'tลซh', meaning strong or rough, indicating durability.
  • It has been used since the late 14th century to describe materials that can withstand stress.
  • The process of toughening something often involves heating and then cooling, a technique used in various crafts.

The word 'toughened' is derived from the Middle English word 'tough', which means strong or resilient. It has roots in Old English 'tลh', meaning tough or strong, and it is related to the Dutch 'toef', meaning tough or severe. Over time, the suffix '-ened' has been added to form the past participle indicating a process resulting in increased strength or durability. The usage of 'toughened' has evolved, especially in industrial contexts, where materials such as glass undergo specific treatments to enhance their properties, leading to broader applications in everyday vernacular and technical language.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,005, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.