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Definition of ripen

ripen

/ˈraɪ.pən/
ri · pen
Adjective:ripe
•
Past Simple:ripened
•
Past Participle:ripened
•
Present Participle:ripening
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ripen Lexical Profile

ripen Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To become or cause to become fully grown, mature, and ready to be eaten or used (especially of fruit, grain, or cheese).

Example

"Leave the green bananas on the kitchen counter for a few days so they can ripen naturally."

2

To develop or bring to a state of fullness, perfection, or readiness over time (of a plan, relationship, or mental faculty).

Example

"Their casual acquaintance gradually ripened into a lifelong professional partnership."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for ripen

• Nearby Words

rip
ripcord
ripe
ripen
ripeness
ripoff
riposte

Word Origin & Etymology

Recorded from the mid-16th century, formed in English from the adjective 'ripe' (from Old English 'rīpe', meaning ready for reaping) combined with the verb-forming suffix '-en'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ripen. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ripen
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