stiffen

When something is stiff, it is not flexible or elastic. This can often happen when something is frozen or when it is dried out.

  • The fabric was stiff and difficult to move.

  • The flowers were stiff and difficult to move.

Definition of stiffen

verb

severely restrict in scope or extent

Synonyms:

constrain, tighten, tighten up

verb

become stiff or stiffer

verb

make stiff or stiffer

Nearby Words

stiffen Pronunciation in a video

Example Sentences for stiffen

  • 1

    The muscle is stiffening slowly.

  • 2

    I lay on the bed and the calf muscles began to stiffen and jerk.

  • 3

    Why does it stiffen

  • 4

    The ribs also serve to stiffen the tray.

  • 5

    A stiffener in the appendage contributes to lifelike movement of the appendage.

  • 6

    After a long time, it starts to stiffen slowly.

  • 7

    The epipubic bones act as levers to stiffen the trunk.

  • 8

    Wax can be used to stiffen the front of the flattop.

  • 9

    At the beginning of the second quarter, the Hokies' defense began to stiffen.

  • 10

    As the bud stage ends, the stem stiffens and the blooming stage is reached.