Definitions
v. to become or make something rigid or less flexible
变硬；使僵硬
v. to become or make something firmer, stronger, or more determined
变坚决；加强
Example
My legs stiffen after sitting on the bus for hours.
在公交车上坐几个小时后，我的双腿就会僵硬。
Public opposition may stiffen if the government approves construction without consulting residents about environmental risks.
如果政府不就环境风险征询居民意见便批准施工，公众的反对可能会更强烈。
Collocations
- muscles stiffen
- stiffen with fear
- stiffen resistance
Word family
- stiff (adj.)
- stiffness (n.)
- stiffly (adv.)
Antonyms
- soften
- relax
Usage tip
可及物也可不及物：stiffen muscles或muscles stiffen。
FAQ
- What does stiffen mean?
- to become or make something rigid or less flexible to become or make something firmer, stronger, or more determined
- How is stiffen pronounced?
- UK /ˈstɪfn/, US /ˈstɪfn/. Use the audio buttons above to listen.
