thickening

noun

thick·​en·​ing ˈthik-niŋ How to pronounce thickening (audio)
ˈthi-kə-
1
: a thickened part or place
2
: the act of making or becoming thick
3
: something used to thicken

Examples of thickening in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This causes the uterine lining to stop thickening and to break down, detaching the embryo. Alexandra Hutzler, ABC News, 26 Mar. 2024 The continuous cycle of itching and scratching can lead to skin thickening, hyperpigmentation, and the development of scaly patches. Amanda Gardner, Health, 4 Mar. 2024 This thickening may restrict blood flow, potentially damaging tissues and organs—including the heart. Staff Author, Health, 14 Mar. 2024 For skin, this will appear as a visible thickening or hardening. Rachael Zimlich, Bsn, Rn, Verywell Health, 13 July 2023 Unlike hair thickening products that plump the hair from the outside, Rogaine's topical solution reactivates hair follicles to stimulate regrowth. Rebecca Deczynski, Health, 30 Jan. 2023 The heat also quickens up the thickening, which in the fridge would take hours. Kate Kassin, Bon Appétit, 25 Jan. 2024 The human remains used in the hoax came from a Medieval-era individual who had a pathological condition that caused unusual thickening of the skull bones. Daniel T. Ksepka, Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2023 Varieties of gumbo can vary infinitely, but three of the main types include: Creole gumbo: Thickened with a roux that's light in color, this gumbo features ham or sausage, okra (which also lends thickening power), and tomatoes. Pam Lolley, Southern Living, 27 Nov. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'thickening.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of thickening was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near thickening

Cite this Entry

“Thickening.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thickening. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

thickening

noun
thick·​en·​ing
1
: the act of making or becoming thick
underwent a gradual thickening
2
: a thickened part or place
3
: something used to thicken
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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