harden
UK: ˈhɑːdn | US: ˈhɑːrdn
vt. to make or become hard or firm
vi. to become emotionally or mentally resistant
vt. to strengthen or toughen (e.g., a material or resolve)
The word "harden" combines the Old English root "hard" (meaning firm or solid) with the Germanic verb-forming suffix "-en," which indicates a change of state. This structure follows a common pattern in English where adjectives are transformed into verbs by adding "-en" (e.g., "soften," "brighten"). The logic is straightforward: "hard" (the quality) + "-en" (the action) = "to make hard." Over time, the word expanded from physical hardening (e.g., metals) to metaphorical uses (e.g., emotions or resolve).
The clay will harden if left in the sun.
Years of hardship hardened her attitude toward life.
The epoxy resin takes an hour to harden completely.
His experiences in the military hardened him against fear.
Cold temperatures can harden butter, making it difficult to spread.