Definition

To make something denser or more solid by adding a substance or by cooking it longer.

Example

You can thicken the soup by adding some flour.

Tense Forms

Conversation

How do you make your soup so rich and tasty?

I usually thicken it with some cream and spices.

That sounds delicious! I guess I should try to thicken mine next time.

Definitely! It really makes a difference in the flavor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thicken → It is formed from "thick" (from Old English "þicce", meaning having a relatively large distance between opposite sides) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "thicken" means to make something thicker or to become thicker.

Memory Tip

Think of making something 'thicker' — 'thick' describes the quality, and '-en' means to make it so.

Visually Confused Words