Laxi Dictionary

English Dictionary

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Definition stiffen in British English

stiffen verb

verb
/ˈstɪf(ə)n/
1

to suddenly hold your body in a stiff way, often because you become nervous, worried, angry, or unfriendly

Example

She stiffened as the footsteps came closer and closer.

Example

He stiffened with rage.

Synonyms and related words
churn convulse flutter
2

to become stiff and difficult to move

Example

Her old fingers were stiffening up now.

Synonyms and related words
still static stationary
2.1

to make something stiff

Example

He sat up straight, stiffening his back.

Synonyms and related words
atomise atomize bake
3

if your resolve or resistance stiffens, or if you stiffen it, you become more determined

Example

The army stiffened their resistance.

Example

The air attack only served to stiffen the enemy's resolve.

Synonyms and related words
strengthen bolster intensify
Definition stiffen in British English