Calcify: meaning, definitions and examples

This is used in a scientific or medical context to describe the process of something becoming hardened by calcium deposits.

• Calcium deposits can calcify in the arteries, leading to serious health issues

This is a general term that means making something more solid or firm. It can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

• The clay will harden overnight
• Over the years, life's difficulties had hardened him emotionally

Typically used to describe the process of a liquid turning into a solid. Also used metaphorically to describe making plans or ideas more firm.

• The lava will solidify as it cools
• They need to solidify their travel plans soon

This term is used to describe making something more rigid or less flexible. It can also be used to describe someone's reaction when they become tense or unyielding.

• Use starch to stiffen the fabric
• She seemed to stiffen at his criticism

Best used in scientific or medical contexts, specifically when describing a process where organic tissue turns into a stony substance or becomes hardened by calcium deposits.

• Over time, the arteries may calcify and restrict blood flow.
• The fossil began to calcify over millennia.

Often used to describe physical substances becoming more solid or firm. Can also figuratively mean making something or someone more resilient or emotionally tough.

• The concrete will harden overnight.
• Years of hardship can harden a person's attitude.

Generally used in a physical sense to describe something becoming rigid or less flexible. It can also mean to make one's resolve firmer, often in a challenging situation.

• The fabric will stiffen after washing with starch.
• He felt his muscles stiffen with fear.

Used to describe the process of coming to rest or making a decision. It can also mean becoming stable after turmoil or movement.

• The dust will settle in a few minutes.
• They decided to settle their differences amicably.
• It took a while, but the baby finally settled down.