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Curdled - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Curdled describes a liquid, especially milk, that has thickened and separated into lumps due to souring or coagulation. It can also refer to emotions or situations that have turned unpleasant or spoiled.

curdled

/ˈkɜrdld/ /ˈkɜːdld/

Definition:

(of milk or a similar liquid) turned thick or lumpy due to souring or coagulation.

Synonyms:

coagulated, clotted, thickened, spoiled

Part of Speech:

verb, adjective

Antonyms:

smooth, unspoiled

Common Collocations:

curdled milk, curdled cream, curdled sauce

Derivatives:

curdling, curdles

Usage Tips:

Use "curdled" to describe spoiled milk or liquids that have thickened unnaturally; often implies spoilage or an undesirable change.

Common Phrases:

curdled blood (fear), the milk has curdled, look of curdled disgust

Etymology:

From Middle English "crudelen," related to "crud" (curd), meaning to thicken or coagulate.

Examples:

  • 1. The milk curdled after being left out overnight.
  • 2. Her face twisted in a look of curdled disgust.
  • 3. The sauce curdled because of the high heat.
  • 4. Fear curdled his blood at the eerie sound.

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