decrepitate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈkrɛpɪˌteɪt/
KK: /dɪˈkrɛpɪˌteɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To produce a crackling sound, especially when heated or roasted.
Example
The beans began to decrepitate as they were roasted over the fire.
Tense Forms
Past: decrepitated
Past Participle: decrepitated
Conversation
Did you hear that sound coming from the fire?
Yeah, it sounds like the wood is starting to decrepitate.
I love that crackling noise; it makes it feel so cozy.
Exactly! It's one of my favorite parts of a campfire.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
crackle
pop
snap
Antonyms
silence
calm
still
transitive verb
Definition
To heat certain substances until they make a crackling sound or until that sound stops.
Example
The chemist decided to decrepitate the crystals to observe the reaction.
Tense Forms
Past: decrepitated
Past Participle: decrepitated
Conversation
Have you ever tried to decrepitate salt crystals when cooking?
No, I haven't, but that sounds interesting!
It's really cool to hear them crackle as they heat up.
Root Explanation
Decrepitate → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "crepitus" (meaning a crack or noise). The word describes the act of producing a cracking sound, often associated with the breaking down or deterioration of something.
Memory Tip
Think of something 'breaking down' ('de-') and making a 'cracking noise' ('crepitus') — that's what decrepitate means.
Visually Confused Words
crepitate
decapitate
decurtate
crepitant