macerate
|mac-e-rate|
🇺🇸
/ˈmæsəˌreɪt/
🇬🇧
/ˈmæsəreɪt/
soften by soaking
Etymology
'macerate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'macerare,' where 'macer-' meant 'soft' or 'to soften.'
'macerare' transformed into the French word 'macerer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'macerate' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to soften or make soft,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to soften by soaking in liquid.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to soften or break down into parts by soaking in a liquid.
The chef decided to macerate the strawberries in sugar overnight.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to cause to waste away or become emaciated.
The disease began to macerate his body, leaving him frail.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45