Hardening

The process of becoming or making something firm, rigid, or resistant to pressure, damage, or change. This can apply to physical materials, such as metals, plastics, or the earth, or it can describe the development of a more resolute character or attitude in a person. The term encompasses various methods, including heat treatment, chemical additions, or exposure to external forces. The intended outcome is often an enhanced ability to withstand stress or perform a specific function under challenging conditions. The degree of hardening can vary depending on the material or individual and the techniques employed.

Hardening meaning with examples

• The blacksmith used a specialized quenching process, immediately submerging the heated steel in cold water, to achieve the desired hardening effect. This crucial step increased the metal's durability, making it far more resilient to impacts during the weapon's use, ensuring a sharper edge and prolonged life. Without this hardening, the sword would be prone to bending and breaking.
• After years of struggling, the experienced soldier underwent the brutal training regime which induced emotional hardening. He found that the trials fortified his mental fortitude, helping him to withstand the horrors of war, allowing him to continue his mission and helping his fellow soldiers. This was a necessary transformation for his survival.
• The construction crew added layers of concrete and employed specific additives to promote the hardening of the foundation. This would ensure the building could withstand the forces of nature, ensuring the building's longevity and structural integrity over the many coming years and future challenges with the climate.
• The sculptor meticulously applied a chemical solution to his clay model. This accelerated the hardening process, transforming the pliable clay into a more rigid and durable form. This meticulous process allowed the fine details to be captured before the clay was fired in a kiln, securing its form permanently.
• Following the scandal, the politician's public image suffered. The public scrutiny eventually led to a psychological hardening, as the once-approachable leader became less communicative and more guarded. This defensive posture was a response to the criticisms, but created distance between the politician and the public.