ripening
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈraɪpənɪŋ/
KK: /ˈraɪpənɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The process of becoming fully developed and ready to eat, especially for fruits and vegetables.
Example
The ripening of the bananas took several days in the warm sun.
Conversation
Have you noticed how the fruit is ripening so fast this season?
Yeah, it seems like every time I look, there’s something new ready to eat!
I love the ripening process; it makes everything taste fresher.
Absolutely! I can't wait to make some pies with all this ripe fruit.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
maturation
development
maturing
Antonyms
decay
deterioration
decline
verb
Definition
The process of becoming ripe or mature, especially in relation to fruit or crops.
Example
The fruit is ripening on the tree, turning from green to yellow.
Tense Forms
Past: ripened
Past Participle: ripened
Conversation
Have you noticed how the fruit in the garden is ripening so quickly?
Yeah, it’s amazing to see it change every day!
I can't wait to taste the strawberries once they’re fully ripening.
Root Explanation
Ripening → It is formed from "ripe" (from Old English *rīpe*, meaning mature or ready for harvest) and "-ening" (a suffix indicating a process or action). The word "ripening" refers to the process of becoming ripe or maturing.
Memory Tip
Think of something becoming 'mature' or 'ready for harvest' — that's what ripening means.
Visually Confused Words
unripening
impending
ripping
rinsing
penning
pending
opening
griping