moisten

[ moi-suhn ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become moist.

   Synonyms: spray, sponge, wet, dampen

moisten

/ ˈmɔɪsən /

verb

1. to make or become moist

Derived Forms

• ˈmoistener, noun

Other Words From

• moisten·er noun
• over·moisten verb
• pre·moistened adjective
• re·moisten verb
• super·moisten verb (used with object)
• un·moisten verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of moisten¹

First recorded in 1570–80; moist + -en ¹

Example Sentences

On a mass scale, that process creates so-called “flying rivers” that moisten the air and generate rainfall.

From Time

Terror moistened my stare and Lara’s hand squeezed mine, trying to calm my fears with her support.

From Washington Blade

Beyond that, according to the EPA, just find a shady, dry spot for your bin, and moisten dry materials before you add them to the heap.

From Popular-Science

Use water to moisten the edge of the bottom crust where it contacts each strip, then tuck the overhang under the bottom crust edge, pressing down to seal it.

From Washington Post

Using a rubber spatula, gently stir to ensure all the sugar is moistened.

From Washington Post

Toss the string beans and mesclun with enough dressing to moisten.

From The Daily Beast

Context: The Shakespearean actor allegedly said this to a nurse who, when attempting to moisten his lips, misfired.

From The Daily Beast

As a result, it felt like an add-on, meant to artificially moisten another otherwise dry address.

From The Daily Beast

He leant against the wall of his refuge, notwithstanding this boast, and licked the ice to moisten his parched lips.

From Project Gutenberg

Tears moisten his eyes and roll down his sunken cheeks as he takes it from my hand.

From Project Gutenberg

During the other part of the year there is not the least rain or snow to moisten the earth.

From Project Gutenberg

Moisten with two spoonfuls of stock, a bouquet garni, two bayleaves and a clove, pepper and salt to taste.

From Project Gutenberg

"Morrison," said the man, licking with his tongue to moisten his lips.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• dampen
• drench
• rinse
• saturate
• soak
• sprinkle
• squirt
• steam
• wash
• wet