hardened crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "hardened crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your understanding.
Solutions for "hardened crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
INURED: Made accustomed to something undesirable, often through prolonged exposure.
7 Letters
STEELED: Mentally prepared or strengthened for something difficult.
CALLOUS: Showing or having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others, or referring to physically hardened skin.
8 Letters
SEASONED: Experienced and therefore competent in something; made tougher by experience.
OBDURATE: Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action, indicating a hardened will.
9 Letters
TOUGHENED: Made stronger and more resistant to hardship, either physically or emotionally.
More About "hardened crossword clue"
The term "hardened" in crossword puzzles is wonderfully versatile, often requiring solvers to think about its various meanings. It can refer to a physical process, like metal becoming more durable through tempering, or a person developing a tough exterior due to life experiences. Understanding these nuances is crucial for pinpointing the correct answer.
Beyond the literal, "hardened" can also imply a psychological state of being unfeeling or indifferent, as in a "hardened criminal" or a "hardened heart." This emotional dimension adds layers to the clue, leading to synonyms that describe resilience, insensitivity, or even stubbornness. Always consider whether the clue points to a physical, emotional, or experienced state of being.
Crossword constructors love words like "hardened" because of their rich semantic fields. This allows them to create clever and challenging clues that test your vocabulary and ability to think contextually. By exploring all possible interpretations, you're not just solving a single clue, but improving your overall crossword acumen.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For words like "hardened," always brainstorm different senses (physical, emotional, experiential) before settling on an answer.
- Check Letter Count First: Use the given letter count to immediately narrow down your possible answers, as this is often the most concrete piece of information.
- Look at Crossing Words: Don't be afraid to leave a blank and fill in crossing words first. These can provide crucial letters that unlock the "hardened" answer.
- Think About Synonyms: If a direct answer doesn't come to mind, try to think of synonyms for "hardened" and then see if any of those words fit the letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hardened' typically mean in crosswords?
'Hardened' in crosswords can refer to several concepts: becoming physically tougher (like metal or skin), becoming emotionally less sensitive or more resilient, or becoming accustomed to difficult conditions. Contextual clues are key to distinguishing which meaning applies.
Are there different types of 'hardening' that appear in clues?
Yes, clues can point to physical hardening (e.g., 'steel' or 'crust'), emotional hardening (e.g., 'callous' or 'inured'), or a state of being made tougher by experience (e.g., 'seasoned'). Pay attention to surrounding words and the puzzle's theme.
How can I distinguish between similar 'hardened' answers?
Look at the number of letters required and any additional context in the clue. For example, 'hardened by experience' might lead to 'SEASONED', while 'emotionally hardened' could suggest 'CALLOUS' or 'INURED'. Checking crossing letters is also essential.