thicken

verb

thick·​en ˈthi-kən How to pronounce thicken (audio)
thickened; thickening ˈthi-kə-niŋ How to pronounce thicken (audio)
ˈthik-

intransitive verb

1
a
: to become dense
the mist thickened
b
: to become concentrated in numbers, mass, or frequency
2
: to grow blurred or obscure
3
: to grow broader or bulkier
4
: to grow complicated or keen
the plot thickens

transitive verb

1
a
: to make thick, dense, or viscous in consistency
thicken gravy with flour
b
: to make close or compact
2
: to increase the depth or diameter of
3
: to make inarticulate : blur
alcohol thickened his speech
thickener noun

Examples of thicken in a Sentence

I thickened the gravy with flour. When the mixture thickens, add the remaining ingredients. The fog thickened when night fell.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Coffees are mixed with fruit juice, scented with flowers, and thickened with rice and even cheese. Eunice Yoon, CNBC, 1 Nov. 2024 This serum is designed to strengthen, lengthen, and thicken your lashes in just a few uses. Claire Rutter, Rolling Stone, 2 Oct. 2024 One is ​​the chili seasoning mix, which not only thickens the soup, but adds heat and a smoky-earthy flavor from the cumin included in it. Liz Mervosh, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 2024 Simmer for two to three minutes, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for thicken 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of thicken was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near thicken

Cite this Entry

“Thicken.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thicken. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

thicken

verb
thick·​en ˈthik-ən How to pronounce thicken (audio)
thickened; thickening -(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce thicken (audio)
1
: to make or become thick, dense, or viscous
thicken gravy with flour
2
: to become complicated
the plot thickens
thickener noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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