Kõveneb

Kõveneb is an Estonian verb form meaning that something becomes harder, stiffer, or more solid. It represents the present tense, third person singular of the verb kõvenema, which describes the process of hardening or solidifying. The base adjective is kõva, meaning hard, and the verb is used to express the change from a softer to a harder state.

Etymology and forms

The word derives from the root kõva (hard) and the verbal suffixes that form the infinitive kõvenema and related conjugations. In usage, kõveneb can refer to physical hardening—for example, a material that sets, cures, or dries until it gains rigidity—as well as to metaphorical hardening, such as a stance, policy, or resolve becoming firmer.

Usage and context

Kõveneb frequently appears in technical, material, or descriptive writing where a process leads to increased solidity, resilience, or resistance. Common contexts include drying, cooling, curing, or chemical hardening of substances. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate that someone’s attitude or a plan has become more definite or unyielding.

Related terms

Related lexemes include kõvenema (to harden), kõvenemine (the process or result of hardening), and the adjective kõva (hard). The verb participates in standard Estonian verb conjugation patterns for present tense forms and other tenses.

See also

Estonian grammar and verb conjugation resources; Estonian vocabulary related to materials science and physical processes.