crossword clue harden – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "harden", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their length, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue harden" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SET: To become firm or solid, as concrete sets.
4 Letters
FIRM: To make or become strong and solid, or to establish oneself securely.
5 Letters
STEEL: To brace oneself mentally or emotionally, or to make something strong and unyielding like steel.
7 Letters
TOUGHEN: To make or become strong, resilient, or more difficult to break.
STIFFEN: To make or become rigid or firm, often used in a physical or metaphorical sense.
More About "crossword clue harden"
"Harden" is a versatile clue in crosswords, often pointing to a wide range of meanings from physical states to emotional responses. Its common usage in daily language, combined with its various synonyms, makes it a frequent but sometimes tricky appearance in puzzles. Understanding the context of the clue—whether it implies a physical process like concrete setting, a material becoming more rigid like steel, or even a person's resolve strengthening—is key to finding the correct answer.
Crossword setters love words like "harden" because they can lead solvers down multiple paths. For example, 'harden' could refer to a liquid solidifying, a material becoming more durable through treatment, or a person developing a tougher demeanor. Always consider the precise phrasing of the clue and any accompanying words to guide your choice among the possible answers, especially when dealing with different letter counts.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Parts of Speech: "Harden" is primarily a verb, but its answers might be nouns or adjectives depending on the nuanced meaning implied. Always check if the answer fits the grammatical context.
- Think Beyond the Literal: Many crossword clues, including "harden," have metaphorical or idiomatic meanings. 'Steel' for instance, can mean to make strong like the metal, or to brace oneself.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by using the letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These letters will either confirm your suspicion or tell you to re-evaluate.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'harden' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'harden' often found in crosswords include SET, FIRM, STEEL, TOUGHEN, STIFFEN, and sometimes more nuanced terms like CALLOUS or BRONZE depending on the specific context.
How does the number of letters help solve 'harden' clues?
The number of letters is crucial as it narrows down the possibilities significantly. For instance, if the clue asks for a 3-letter word, 'SET' might be the primary candidate, while a 7-letter slot points towards 'TOUGHEN' or 'STIFFEN'.
Can 'harden' have metaphorical answers?
Absolutely. 'Harden' can imply becoming less sensitive (e.g., 'callous'), or becoming more resolute ('steel' oneself). Crossword setters often use these broader meanings, so consider figurative interpretations in addition to literal ones.