Kõvastuma

Kõvastuma is an Estonian verb that translates to "to harden" or "to become hard" in English. It describes a process of increasing solidity, rigidity, or density. This process can apply to a variety of substances and situations.

In a physical sense, kõvastuma refers to materials changing from a softer state to a harder one. For example, concrete kõvastub as it cures, gaining strength and rigidity. Dough might kõvastuma if left out in the air and dries. Similarly, wood can kõvastuma over time as it dries and its cellular structure stabilizes.

The term can also be used metaphorically. A person's attitude or emotions might kõvastuma, suggesting they become more unyielding, stubborn, or emotionally distant. For instance, someone might have a kõvastunud suhtumine (hardened attitude) towards a certain issue. Similarly, a situation or problem could be described as kõvastunud, indicating it has become more entrenched and difficult to resolve.

The etymology of kõvastuma is straightforward, stemming from the adjective "kõva," meaning "hard." The suffix "-stuma" indicates a process of becoming or turning into something. Therefore, kõvastuma literally means to become hard. The verb can be used in various grammatical tenses and moods to describe the ongoing or completed process of hardening.