curdle (C1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈkɜːrdəl/

Definition

Separate into curds and whey, or thicken into a lumpy consistency, typically due to heat, acid, or age.

Examples

• The sauce began to curdle because the heat was too high.

• Adding lemon juice to the cream caused it to curdle instantly.

• The milk had started to curdle, so we had to throw it away.

How to Use curdle

curdle into (prepositional phrase)

to transform into a specific lumpy state — "The mixture will curdle into a grainy texture if not stirred constantly."

make [something] curdle (collocation)

to cause the separation of solids and liquids — "The acidity of the vinegar will make the milk curdle."

Synonyms of curdle

Words with a similar meaning to curdle:

• thicken
• coagulate
• clot
• congeal

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