hoarsen

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈhɔːrsən/

KK: /ˈhɔrsən/

transitive verb

Definition

To cause someone or something to have a rough or harsh voice, often due to strain or illness.

Example

The loud concert hoarsened my voice for days.

Tense Forms

Past: hoarsened

Past Participle: hoarsened

Conversation

I think I might hoarsen my voice from all that singing last night.

Yeah, I heard you belting out those high notes!

I guess I got a bit carried away trying to impress everyone.

It definitely worked, but make sure to rest your voice!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

rasp

grate

harshen

Antonyms

soothe

calm

soften

Root Explanation

Hoarsen is derived from the Old English "hars" (meaning rough or harsh) and the suffix "-en" (indicating to make or become). The word "hoarsen" means to become rough or harsh in sound, typically referring to the voice.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'harsh' to remember that 'hoarsen' means to make a voice rough or harsh.

Visually Confused Words