redden

UK: ˈredn | US: ˈredn

Definition

  1. vt. to make or become red

  2. vi. to blush or flush (e.g., from embarrassment or heat)

Structure
red <color>en <verb suffix (to cause to become)>
Etymology

The word "redden" combines "red," from Old English rēad (meaning the color red), with the suffix "-en," a Germanic verb-forming suffix meaning "to cause to become." This suffix appears in verbs like "darken" or "soften." The logical progression is straightforward: "redden" literally means "to make or turn red," whether referring to objects (e.g., leaves in autumn) or a person's face (e.g., blushing).

Examples

  1. The sunset began to redden the sky.

  2. Her cheeks reddened when she was complimented.

  3. The artist reddened the petals to make the flowers more vibrant.

  4. The cold wind made his ears redden.

  5. The chemical reaction caused the solution to redden instantly.