crystallize
UK: /ˈkrɪstəlaɪz/ | US: /ˈkrɪstəˌlaɪz/
vt. to cause (a substance) to form crystals
vi. to assume a crystalline form
vt. to give definite or concrete form to (an idea, plan, etc.)
The word "crystallize" derives from the Greek "krystallos" (meaning "clear ice" or "rock crystal"), which passed into Latin as "crystallum" and later into Old French as "cristal." The suffix "-ize," of Greek origin via Latin, indicates a verb-forming action ("to make or become"). Thus, "crystallize" literally means "to make into crystal," reflecting both its scientific sense (forming solid crystals) and metaphorical use (making abstract ideas concrete).
The chemist used a cooling method to crystallize the solution.
Over time, the maple syrup began to crystallize in the jar.
The author worked to crystallize her thoughts into a clear thesis.
Salt crystals will crystallize if the water evaporates.
The team’s strategy finally crystallized after weeks of discussion.