Agency Dictionary
Crystallize
verbPronunciation: /ˈkrɪs.təl.aɪz/
In Portuguese: Cristalizar
Creativity & LearningWhat does “Crystallize” mean?
To take definite, structured, or concrete shape after an initial period of ambiguity or fluidity.
Etymology
Formed from crystal with the suffix -ize, around 1600, first for the change of a substance into crystals. Crystal came through Old French cristal from Latin crystallus, from Greek krystallos, "ice, rock crystal", related to kryos, "frost": the ancients took clear quartz for ice frozen hard. The double l of the verb follows the Latin and Greek stem. The figurative sense, to take a definite and lasting form, dates from the 17th century.
Usage note
American English writes crystallize; British English accepts crystallise as well. Both keep the double l, unlike the noun crystal.
Synonyms
- take shape
- solidify
- coalesce
- gel
- materialize
- firm up
Word family
- crystal
- crystalline
- crystallization
- crystallized
- recrystallize
Concept
Source editions
Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.
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