Hardness

/ˈhɑrdnəs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The quality or condition of being hard; the measure of a material's resistance to deformation, scratching, or abrasion.

The hardness of diamonds makes them ideal for cutting tools.

The difficulty of something; the severity or strictness.

The hardness of the exam surprised all the students.

The state of being unyielding or uncompromising.

Her hardness in negotiations established her reputation as a tough businesswoman.

The absence of moisture or softness, often used in reference to soil or a substance.

The hardness of the clay required careful handling to mold it correctly.

Derived from Middle English 'hardnes', from Old English 'heardness'.

hardness of heart

Inability to show compassion.

hardness of the material

Refers to a substance's resistance to physical wear.

take it hard

To react strongly or severely to something.

hard

Having a firm, solid, or compact structure.

hardy

Capable of enduring difficult conditions.

hardship

Severe suffering or privation.

To be very strict or tough in a situation.

The coach showed hardness during practice.

The ability to remain resilient under pressure.

He really showed his hardness during the stressful times.