thickening

noun

thick·​en·​ing ˈthi-kə-niŋ 

ˈthik-

1

: a thickened part or place

2

: the act of making or becoming thick

3

: something used to thicken

Examples of thickening in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This produces a firm, inorganic-rich SEI that curbs excessive electrolyte loss and uncontrolled SEI thickening. —Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026

These amino acids may protect against the development of atherosclerosis, or the thickening or hardening of the arteries caused by a buildup of plaque. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 31 Dec. 2025

Probiotic Yogurt Some people find that drinking milk or eating dairy products worsens congestion by thickening mucus. —Angela Ryan Lee, Verywell Health, 31 Dec. 2025

Turns out the cornstarch in your pantry can be used for more than baking chewy cookies and thickening puddings and sauces. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 29 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for thickening

• quickening
• sickening

Kids Definition

thickening

noun

thick·​en·​ing

1

: the act of making or becoming thick

underwent a gradual thickening

2

: a thickened part or place

3

: something used to thicken