quicken
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkwɪkən/
KK: /ˈkwɪkən/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become faster or more lively; to start to grow or develop, especially in a way that is noticeable.
Example
As spring arrives, the flowers begin to quicken and bloom.
Tense Forms
Past: quickened
Past Participle: quickened
Conversation
I feel like my energy levels really quicken when the sun is out.
Yeah, sunny days always lift my mood too!
It's amazing how a little sunlight can quicken your motivation to get things done.
Absolutely! I love taking walks when it’s bright outside.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
accelerate
hasten
speed
Antonyms
slow
dawdle
linger
transitive verb
Definition
To make something happen faster or to increase its speed or intensity.
Example
The new policies aim to quicken the process of getting permits.
Tense Forms
Past: quickened
Past Participle: quickened
Conversation
I read a book that really helped to quicken my creativity.
That sounds interesting! What was the book about?
It had some great exercises to quicken your thinking process.
Root Explanation
Quicken → It is formed from "cwic" (from Old English, meaning alive or living) and the suffix "-en" (meaning to make or cause to be). The word "quicken" means to make alive or to cause to become lively.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word for alive ('cwic') — when you quicken something, you are making it lively or bringing it to life.
Visually Confused Words
enquicken
coquicken