Definition

To become rigid or fixed in a certain way, often referring to ideas or structures that no longer change or develop.

Example

Over time, their innovative approach began to ossify, making it difficult to adapt to new challenges.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how some traditions just seem to ossify over time?

Yeah, it's like they become stuck in the past and never change.

Right! It makes me wonder if we should try to innovate instead.

Definitely! Otherwise, we risk losing the spirit of those traditions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To change something, like cartilage or a membrane, into bone; or to make something rigid and unchanging.

Example

As we age, our bodies tend to ossify, making it harder to adapt to new situations.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how traditions can ossify over time?

Yeah, it's interesting how some customs never change, even when they should.

Right? It’s like they become so rigid that they lose their original meaning.

Root Explanation

Ossify → It is formed from "os" (from Latin *os, ossis*, meaning bone) and "-ify" (meaning to make or to cause to become). The word "ossify" means to make or become bony, or to turn into bone.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'os' for bone, and remember that 'ossify' means to turn something into bone.

Visually Confused Words