Definition

To make something rough, severe, or unpleasant in quality or tone.

Example

The criticism served to harshen the atmosphere in the room.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I feel like the winter weather could really harshen our plans for the weekend.

Yeah, I heard it might snow again, which would be a bummer.

Exactly! I hope it doesn't harshen the mood for our road trip.

Me too! A little sunshine would make everything better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Harshen is formed from "harsh" (from Old English *heard*, meaning hard or severe) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "harshen" means to make something harsh or to become harsh.

Memory Tip

Think of something becoming 'hard' or 'severe' — that's what 'harshen' means, to make something harsh.

Visually Confused Words