Definition

To make something have a rough surface or texture.

Example

The carpenter decided to roughen the wood before applying the finish.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I noticed that the surface of the table is starting to roughen over time.

Yeah, it definitely needs some maintenance to keep it smooth.

Maybe we should sand it down to prevent it from getting too roughen.

Good idea! A little effort now can make a big difference later.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Roughen → It is formed from "rough" (from Old English *ruh*, meaning uneven or coarse) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "roughen" means to make something rough or to become rough.

Memory Tip

Think of something becoming 'uneven' or 'coarse' ('rough') when you add the action of making it so ('-en').

Visually Confused Words