Definition

The process of becoming firm or solid, often used in reference to materials or substances that change from a soft to a hard state.

Example

The hardening of the concrete took several hours before it was strong enough to support the structure.

Conversation

I read about the process of hardening metals recently.

Really? I didn't know there was a specific process for that.

Yeah, it involves adding certain substances to make them stronger during hardening.

That sounds interesting! I should look into it more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hardening → It is formed from "hard" (from Old English "heard", meaning solid or firm) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "hardening" means the process of making something solid or firm.

Memory Tip

Think of something becoming more 'solid' ('hard') — that's why hardening means to make something hard.

Visually Confused Words