curdle
verb (used with or without object)
to change into curd; coagulate; congeal.
have curdled
-
present perfectof curdle.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In the wrong directorial hands, this sort of intervention could easily have curdled into sentimentality.
From New York Times ● Aug. 1, 2023
Rather, they’re interested in systems that have curdled into solipsism and self-parody.
From Slate ● Jan. 31, 2019
In the resulting print, the boy glances from the shadows into the camera with furrowed brow, a moment of pure vulnerability that a split second later might have curdled into rage at Meyerowitz’s intrusion.
From The Guardian ● Mar. 7, 2018
The parade ended close to midnight, well past the point at which excitement may have curdled into irritation for many viewers.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 6, 2016
‘Then I forgive you. But I saw her some time ago, driving a pony-trap towards Bywater with a face that would have curdled new milk.’
From "The Fellowship of the Ring" by J.R.R. Tolkien
