Definition

To become pale or white, often due to fear or shock.

Example

Her face blanched when she heard the news.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how his face blanched when he heard the news?

Yeah, it was like he saw a ghost!

I thought he was going to faint right there.

I know! It was such a dramatic reaction.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something white or pale, often by scalding it briefly in hot water.

Example

She decided to blanch the vegetables before freezing them to preserve their color and texture.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried to blanch vegetables before cooking them?

Yeah, I did it once for some green beans. It really helps keep the color vibrant.

I heard it also makes them taste better; is that true?

Root Explanation

Blanch comes from Old French 'blanchir' (meaning to whiten), which is derived from the Latin 'blancus' (meaning white). The word 'blanch' means to make something white or pale, often by scalding it briefly in boiling water.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'blanchir' which means to make something white — that's why blanch means to whiten or lighten something.

Visually Confused Words