liquefy
UK: ˈlɪk.wɪ.faɪ | US: ˈlɪk.wə.faɪ
vt. to make or become liquid
vi. to change into a liquid state
liquefy = liqu<liquid> + e<connecting vowel> + fy<make>
- liqu (from Latin liquere, meaning "to be liquid")
- e (a connecting vowel, often used in Latin-derived words)
- fy (from Latin -facere, meaning "to make")
Etymology Origin:
The word liquefy traces back to Latin liquefacere, combining liquere (liquid) and facere (to make). It entered Middle English via Old French liquefier, retaining its core meaning of "to turn into liquid." The morphemes liqu- and -fy are common in scientific and technical terms (e.g., liquid, solidify), reflecting a logical progression from state-changing actions.
Heat will liquefy the solid wax.
The ice began to liquefy under the midday sun.
Certain gases liquefy at extremely low temperatures.
The chemist used pressure to liquefy the nitrogen.
The chocolate will liquefy if left in a warm room.