Definition

To make something hard or stiff by adding calcium or by becoming hard like stone.

Example

The doctor explained how certain conditions can calcify the bones over time.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how some people can really calcify their ideas over time?

Yeah, it's like they refuse to consider anything new or different.

Exactly! It's important to stay flexible and open-minded instead of letting our thoughts calcify.

Totally agree — growth comes from being willing to change our perspectives.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Calcify → It is formed from "calx" (meaning lime or calcium) and "-fy" (meaning to make or to cause to become). The word "calcify" means to make or become hardened by the deposition of calcium salts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'calcium' as the substance that hardens things, and '-fy' means to make. So, calcify means to make something hard by adding calcium.

Visually Confused Words