Langimage
English

quicken

|quick/en|

B2

/ˈkwɪkən/

to speed up or revive

Etymology
Etymology Information

'quicken' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cwician,' where 'cwic' meant 'alive.'

Historical Evolution

'cwician' transformed into the Middle English word 'quikenen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'quicken.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to come to life or revive,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make or become faster.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to make or become faster or more active.

The pace of the game began to quicken.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to give or restore life to; revive.

The rain quickened the parched land.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45