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Thicken - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To thicken means to make or become denser or more viscous, often by adding a substance like flour or cornstarch. It can also describe the process of becoming more intense or complex, as in a plot.

thicken

/ˈθɪkən/ /ˈθɪkən/

Definition:

To make or become thicker in consistency or density.

Synonyms:

coagulate, congeal, stiffen, condense

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

thin, dilute

Common Collocations:

thicken the sauce, thicken the plot, thicken the mixture

Derivatives:

thickening, thickener

Usage Tips:

Use "thicken" for liquids or mixtures becoming denser; often involves heat or additives like flour.

Common Phrases:

thicken the plot, blood thickens in cold weather

Etymology:

From Old English "thiccian," meaning to make dense or viscous; related to "thick."

Examples:

  • 1. The soup will thicken if you simmer it longer.
  • 2. Add cornstarch to thicken the gravy quickly.
  • 3. The fog began to thicken as night fell.
  • 4. Her voice thickened with emotion as she spoke.

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