WordLens

thicken

1 of 1verb
/ˈθɪ.kən/
Forms:thickens,thickening,thickened,thickened
1

to increase the dimension of something

transitive
  • The designer decided to thicken the walls of the building to enhance its structural integrity.
  • The seamstress decided to thicken the hem of the dress to give it more weight and structure.
  • To improve insulation, the homeowner decided to thicken the attic insulation by adding another layer of fiberglass.
  • To increase privacy, the homeowner planted bushes along the property line to thicken the hedge.
Synonyms:
inspissate
Antonyms:
thin
2

to become more viscous or dense

  • As the gravy cooked, it began to thicken, reaching the desired consistency.
  • The pudding mixture thickened as it cooled, forming a smooth and creamy texture.
  • After simmering for hours, the stew gradually thickened, resulting in a rich and hearty broth.
  • As the sauce reduced on the stove, it thickened, intensifying its flavor.
  • The cream in the recipe thickened as it was whipped, forming soft peaks.
Synonyms:
inspissate
Antonyms:
thin
3

to make a substance more dense

transitive
  • She adds flour to the sauce to thicken it.
  • The chef is currently thickening the soup with cream.
  • He thickened the stew by adding more vegetables.
  • The recipe calls for adding cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Synonyms:
inspissate