What does the suffix -en mean as in words broaden widen and hasten?

The suffix "-en" in words like "broaden," "widen," and "hasten" is a verb-forming suffix. It indicates that the word is a verb and that it means "to make" or "to become" the adjective that precedes it.

Here's a breakdown:

* Broaden: "Broad" is the adjective meaning "wide or extensive." Adding "-en" makes it a verb meaning "to make wider or more extensive."

* Widen: "Wide" is the adjective meaning "having a great distance from side to side." Adding "-en" makes it a verb meaning "to make wider."

* Hasten: "Hasty" is the adjective meaning "hurried or quick." Adding "-en" makes it a verb meaning "to make quicker or more hurried."

Essentially, "-en" transforms a descriptive word (adjective) into a word that describes an action or process (verb).