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

In the relatively new carbon dioxide method, developed in the early 1970s, producers use high-pressure CO₂ to extract caffeine from moistened coffee beans.

From Salon

As she spoke, her eyes began to moisten.

From Literature

Press the soil block maker into the moistened potting mix and rock back and forth to fill.

From Seattle Times

They had some Palestinian thyme and foraged wild greens to eat, but only that, and just enough water to moisten their mouths once in a while, Mr. Barda told a Times reporter.

From New York Times

They love hot, dry conditions, but they need the occasional downpour to moisten the soil in which they incubate their eggs.

From New York Times

Related Words

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