Definition

To gather or clump together into a thick, semi-solid mass, often used in reference to substances like blood cells.

Example

The blood cells began to sludge together, forming a thick mass.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how the oil can sludge up in the engine?

Yeah, it gets really thick after a while if you don't change it.

I think I need to check mine before it starts to sludge more.

Good idea! It's better to stay on top of it to avoid any issues.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A thick, soft, and often muddy material that can form from waste, water, or other substances, usually found at the bottom of rivers or in sewage systems.

Example

After the heavy rain, the river was filled with sludge that made it difficult for boats to pass.

Conversation

Did you see the sludge at the bottom of the river during our hike?

Yeah, it looked really gross and thick!

I wonder what causes that kind of sludge to form.

Root Explanation

Sludge originates from Middle English 'sludg' (meaning a thick, muddy substance) and is related to the Old English 'slod' (meaning mud or mire). The word describes a thick, viscous material, often found in water or as a byproduct of industrial processes.

Memory Tip

Imagine a thick, muddy substance that is hard to move through — that's what sludge means, connecting the idea of mud ('slod') with the heaviness of the material.

Visually Confused Words