Synonyms of ripen

ripen

verb

ˈrī-pən 

as in to grow

to become mature

pears ripening on the tree

Synonyms & Similar Words

• grow
• progress
• develop
• mature
• grow up
• age
• bloom
• flower
• soften
• evolve
• blossom
• flourish
• mellow
• open
• unfold
• gray
• burgeon
• get on
• get along
• advance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• deteriorate
• decay
• worsen
• decline
• sink
• dry
• degenerate
• wilt
• shrivel
• weaken
• fade
• wither
• wane
• waste (away)
• sag
• revert
• flag
• return
• droop
• regress
• lapse
• retrogress
• backslide

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of ripen

Unlike Napa's warmer northern appellations, Frank Family's Chardonnay program is anchored in the cool-climate Carneros AVA, where fog from San Pablo Bay slows ripening and helps grapes retain bright natural acidity. — Emily Price, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Remember that while a cantaloupe does continue to ripen after it’s harvested, the actual sugar content won’t change. — Alexandra Frost, USA Today, 29 June 2026

His Fieramonte Amarone Classico Riserva DOCG hails from a 1,361-foot-high vineyard, which benefits from optimal morning sun, constant air circulation, and pronounced day-to-night temperature variation during the ripening season. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 28 June 2026

Temperatures below that range can damage the fruit and interfere with the ripening process. — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 27 June 2026