How Do You Spell THICKEN?

1. Thicken is a verb that refers to the process of making something denser, more viscous, or more concentrated by adding a substance or increasing the amount of an existing substance. It involves the transformation of a liquid or a mixture into a thicker consistency or texture.

   When a liquid is thickened, it becomes more resistant to flow and more gel-like. This can be achieved by adding certain substances like flour, cornstarch, or gelatin, which act as binding agents to absorb liquid and create a thicker consistency. For example, when making a sauce, butter or flour can be used to thicken it, giving it a creamier texture and enhanced flavor.

   Thickening can also apply to substances other than liquids. For instance, a solution or a mixture can be thickened by reducing the amount of solvent or by adding a filler material, thereby increasing its overall density.

   In a figurative sense, thicken can also describe the process of making something more complex, intricate, or difficult to understand. It involves adding more details, layers, or components to enhance the depth or richness of a concept, narrative, or argument.

   Overall, thicken is a versatile verb that encompasses the physical process of making a liquid more viscous, as well as metaphorically adding complexity or intricacy to various aspects of life, art, or knowledge.

2. • To strengthen; to confirm.

   • To make close or dense; to render less thin; to become dark or obscure; to become more numerous; to press or be crowded.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for THICKEN *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for THICKEN

The word "thicken" has its roots in Old English. It is derived from the verb "thiccian", which means "to make thick or dense". The Old English form was influenced by the Middle English word "thiknen" before evolving into its modern spelling and pronunciation. The term is ultimately related to the Old Norse word "þekkja", meaning "to thicken", which further strengthens its Germanic origins.

Idioms with the word THICKEN

Similar spelling words for THICKEN

Conjugate verb Thicken