stiff·en·er
-f(ə)nə(r)
plural -s
: one that stiffens: such as
a
: a worker who sizes hats
b
: something (such as buckram or a piece of paperboard) used for stiffening a manufactured article
specifically
: counter entry 5 sense 5
c
: any of a number of vertical angles secured at intervals across the entire width of the web of a large plate girder to prevent buckling
d
: an angle iron, channel, or other structural shape used to increase the rigidity of plating on a ship's bulkhead
called also stiffening bar
e
: a structural member other than a flat sheet used to reinforce the frame of an aircraft compare stringer
f
: an alcoholic bracer
Cite this Entry
“Stiffen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stiffen. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.
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