IPA: /uːz/
KK: /uz/
To flow or leak out slowly, often through small openings, or to emit a quality or essence gradually.
The syrup began to ooze from the bottle after it was tipped over.
Past: oozed
Past Participle: oozed
A thick, soft substance that flows slowly, often found in muddy areas or as a layer on the bottom of water bodies.
The oozing mud made it difficult to walk along the riverbank.
To release or let out a substance slowly and steadily, often in a thick or sticky form.
The tree oozes sap during the spring.
Past: oozed
Past Participle: oozed
The word 'ooze' originates from Middle English 'ose', which comes from Old English 'āwisan', meaning to flow or to run. It describes the slow, gradual flow of a liquid, often associated with a thick or viscous substance.
Imagine a thick liquid that 'flows' slowly — that's what 'ooze' means, coming from the idea of something running or flowing.