(~s, ~ing, ~ed)
1.
When something ~s or when you ~ it, it becomes stiff or firm.
Mould the mixture into shape while hot, before it ~s...
Give the cardboard two or three coats of varnish to ~ it.
VERB: V, V n
2.
When an attitude or opinion ~s or is ~ed, it becomes harsher, stronger, or fixed.
Their action can only serve to ~ the attitude of landowners...
The bitter split which has developed within Solidarity is likely to ~ further into separation.
VERB: V n, V
~ing
...a ~ing of the government’s attitude towards rebellious parts of the army.
N-SING: usu N of n
3.
When prices and economies ~, they become much more stable than they were.
Property prices are just beginning to ~ again.
VERB: V
4.
When events ~ people or when people ~, they become less easily affected emotionally and less sympathetic and gentle than they were before.
Her years of drunken bickering ~ed my heart...
All of a sudden my heart ~ed against her.
VERB: V n, V against n
5.
If you say that someone’s face or eyes ~, you mean that they suddenly look serious or angry.
His smile died and the look in his face ~ed.
VERB: V