slicken

[ slik-uhn ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become slick.

Word History and Origins

Origin of slicken¹

First recorded in 1620–30; slick ( def ) + -en ¹( def )

Example Sentences

Anger, depression, jealousy, resentment and more all vividly factor in here and help the characters avoid the kind of “saintliness” that can slicken these sorts of tragic tales.

From Los Angeles Times

More than 100 flights have been canceled at Atlanta’s airport and city leaders say they fear ice could slicken streets and freeways just as thousands of fans begin pouring into town for Super Bowl 53.

From Washington Times

Forecasters say the storm system expected to move into the region on Friday could slicken streets and highways from Texas all the way east to the Carolinas.

From Washington Times

Forecasters say the storm system expected to move into the region on Friday could slicken streets and highways from Texas all the way east to the Carolinas.

From Seattle Times

Franchises are supposed to use digital effects to slicken the ride with tedious profligacy, not as a last resort deployed only when practical effects aren’t possible.

From Slate