# thickening

/ˈθɪkənɪŋ/ (US) · /θˈɪkənɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thickening
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the process of becoming thicker or the state of being thick. You use this to describe things like soup, paint, or even a person's voice.

For teachers: the process of becoming denser or more viscous; the state of having a higher density or consistency than a standard reference.

## Examples

- The soup needs some more salt before the thickening is complete.
- The thickening of the atmosphere during the storm made it difficult for the pilots to see the runway.
- The gradual thickening of the patient's blood was a clear sign that the medication was beginning to take effect, though the doctor remained cautious about the side effects.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.