crossword harden – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "harden", along with explanations to help you understand the context and improve your crossword-solving skills. Dive in to find the perfect word for your puzzle!
Solutions for "crossword harden" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SET: To become firm or solid.
FIX: To make firm or stable.
GEL: To become a gel; to solidify.
4 Letters
FIRM: To make or become firm or solid.
6 Letters
CEMENT: To make something stronger or more solid.
7 Letters
TOUGHEN: To make or become tougher or stronger.
STIFFEN: To make or become stiff or rigid.
FORTIFY: To strengthen a place with defensive works so as to protect it against attack, or to strengthen a person mentally or physically.
More About "crossword harden"
The clue "harden" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary and understanding of nuance. It can refer to physical processes, such as concrete hardening or a liquid gelling. It might also imply a more abstract concept, like hardening one's resolve or toughening up in the face of adversity. This dual nature makes it a frequent but engaging challenge.
When you encounter "harden" in a puzzle, consider the literal and figurative meanings. Is the puzzle leaning towards a scientific or material transformation, or is it hinting at a personal or emotional change? The length of the answer often provides the first critical hint, narrowing down possibilities from short, common verbs like SET or FIX to longer, more descriptive terms such as TOUGHEN or FORTIFY. Always cross-reference with intersecting letters to confirm your choice.
Understanding the different contexts of "harden" will significantly boost your solving speed. From the kitchen (gelatin setting) to the battlefield (fortifying defenses), the word's applications are broad, and crossword setters love to exploit this breadth. Familiarizing yourself with a range of synonyms for 'harden' across various lengths is a key strategy for success.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and focuses your thinking.
- Consider All Meanings: For words like "harden" that have multiple meanings (physical, emotional, metaphorical), think through all possible interpretations. Which one fits the overall theme or other clues?
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from crossing words are your best friends. Even one or two confirmed letters can quickly reveal the correct answer, especially for shorter words.
- Think Synonyms: Crosswords often rely on synonyms. If the direct answer isn't obvious, brainstorm words that mean the same as "harden" and see if any fit the letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'harden' typically mean in crosswords?
'Harden' in crosswords usually refers to making something firm, strong, rigid, or tough. It can relate to physical transformation (like concrete setting) or metaphorical strengthening (like resolve). The context of the surrounding clues is key to deciphering the exact shade of meaning.
Are there common synonyms for 'harden' that often appear as crossword answers?
Yes, common synonyms for 'harden' found in crosswords include SET, FIX, FIRM, CEMENT, TOUGHEN, STIFFEN, BRACE, and FORTIFY. Less common but possible answers include CONGEAL, JELL, or OSSIFY, depending on the nuance required by the clue.
How can I improve my chances of solving 'harden' clues?
To solve 'harden' clues more effectively, consider the number of letters provided first. Then, think about the different contexts of 'harden': making something physically hard (like 'cement'), making something more resilient ('toughen'), or making a decision firm ('resolve'). Look at intersecting letters to narrow down possibilities, and always consider synonyms that fit the letter count.