calcifies
/ˈkælsɪˌfaɪz/
VERB
1. To make something hard and stony
To cause something to become hard and stony through the deposition or accumulation of calcium salts.
1.1. Hardening tissues and biological structures
Describes the process of causing body tissues, bones, cartilage, or other biological structures to become hardened through calcium salt deposits.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- softens
- liquefies
- dissolves
Examples
- The disease calcifies the soft tissue surrounding the joint.
- Calcium deposits gradually calcify the arterial walls.
Related Words
- mineralizes
- encrusts
- stiffens
- calcification
- ossification
1.2. Hardening surfaces through mineral deposits
Describes mineral-rich substances accumulating on surfaces and forming hard, stony deposits or crusts.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- dissolves
- liquefies
- softens
- thaws
Examples
- Mineral-rich water calcifies the showerhead over time.
- The deposits gradually calcify the inside of the old pipes.
Related Words
- crystallizes
- mineralizes
- indurates
- deposits
- scales
VERB
2. To become hard and stony
To become hard and stony through the accumulation or deposition of calcium salts.
2.1. Naturally hardening through calcium deposits
Describes tissues, bones, rocks, or other materials becoming hard and stony as calcium salts accumulate within or on them.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- softens
- liquefies
- melts
- dissolves
- thaws
Examples
- As the bone heals, it calcifies and forms a hard callus.
- The rock gradually calcifies over centuries.
- Dental plaque calcifies when mineral deposits accumulate on its surface.
Related Words
- mineralizes
- fossilizes
- encrusts
- rigidifies
- sets