flattens
|flat/ten(s)|
🇺🇸
/ˈflætənz/
🇬🇧
/ˈflæt(ə)nz/
(flatten)
make flat
Etymology
'flatten' originates from English (Middle English), specifically formed from the adjective 'flat' + the verb-forming suffix '-en' (meaning 'make or become').
'flat' came into English via Old Norse 'flatr' (meaning 'flat') and Old English forms; in Middle English the verb formed as 'flaten' or 'flatten' and eventually became the modern English 'flatten'.
Initially it meant 'to make or become flat', and over time the sense broadened to include 'defeat overwhelmingly' and 'reduce intensity or variation' in addition to the original physical sense.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'flatten': to make (something) flat or flatter; to level or smooth a surface.
She flattens the dough with a rolling pin before baking.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
third-person singular present of 'flatten': to defeat decisively or overwhelm (someone or something).
The home team flattens most opponents by several goals.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 3
third-person singular present of 'flatten': to reduce the intensity, range, or variation of something (e.g., sound, data, or activity).
A lack of rehearsal flattens the performance's emotional peaks.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2026/01/11 04:41