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adjective

hard

HARD/hɑːrd/

Firm enough to resist pressure or bending.

The man presses on a hard stone block beside a soft sponge.

An older man presses down on a solid stone block and a soft sponge side by side.
Etymology
hardOld Englishsolid, firm, not soft

Old English heard already described something solid and firm rather than soft. The selected meaning preserves that physical sense, emphasizing resistance to bending, breaking, or cutting.

In context

Window Cleaning Resource0:37
hard rubber maintains its shape and Edge longer in high temperatures ensuring a streak free finish
Hard vs. Soft Rubber: The Window Cleaner's Guide

More examples

  • The ground is too hard to dig with a small shovel.
  • This bread has a hard crust and a soft center.
  • The clay becomes harder as it dries.

Forms

hard · harder · hardest

hardness noun — The quality of resisting pressure or bending.

harden verb — To become hard or make something hard.

Similar words

firm
Resists pressure but may still yield slightly when pressed.
rigid
Resists bending or flexing rather than surface pressure.