ripen

verb

ˈrī-pən How to pronounce ripen (audio)
Definition of ripennext
as in to grow
to become mature pears ripening on the tree

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ripen Some olive varieties are commonly sold green, including Castelvetrano, Picholine, Lucques, and Gordal olives, while Kalamata, Niçoise, and Gaeta olives are typically sold fully ripened. — Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 June 2026 The Algonquin people also called it the Raspberry moon, evoking the fruit that ripens around that time in North America, while the Cree knew it as the Feather Moulting Moon, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 2 July 2026 Unlike Napa's warmer northern appellations, Frank Family's Chardonnay program is anchored in the cool-climate Carneros AVA, where fog from San Pablo Bay slows ripening and helps grapes retain bright natural acidity. — Emily Price, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 His Fieramonte Amarone Classico Riserva DOCG hails from a 1,361-foot-high vineyard, which benefits from optimal morning sun, constant air circulation, and pronounced day-to-night temperature variation during the ripening season. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ripen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ripen
  1. grow
  2. progress
Verb
  • The iconic fast food company has grown beyond its California roots in recent years, opening locations in Colorado, Texas, Idaho, and as far east as Tennessee.
    — James Powel, USA Today, 7 July 2026
  • And a growing body of research suggests that one of the simplest ways to help isn’t more space or more exercise.
    — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 July 2026
Definition of grow
Verb
  • As the evening progressed, however, the noise died down, and the makeshift set at the base of the Statue of Liberty sprung into action, securing a performance without distractions.
    — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 3 July 2026
  • Lack of magnesium can cause older leaves to yellow and progress to younger leaves, as well as interveinal chlorosis.
    — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 3 July 2026
Definition of progress

Browse Nearby Words

ripe
ripen
ripened
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Cite this Entry

“Ripen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ripen. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on ripen

Nglish: Translation of ripen for Spanish Speakers

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