crystallize etymology

Etymology

Crystallize originates from the Late Latin word "crystallizāre," which means "to form crystals." This word is derived from the Greek word "krýstallos," meaning "ice, rock crystal."

Meaning

Crystallize has several meanings:

  • To form or cause to form into crystals.
  • To become clear or transparent like a crystal.
  • To become fixed or definite in form or structure.
  • To condense or concentrate into a solid or crystalline form.

Origin

The word "crystal" has an extensive history dating back to ancient times:

  • Ancient Greek: The Greeks first used the term "krýstallos" to describe rock crystal, a colorless and transparent variety of quartz. They believed that rock crystal was a form of ice that had solidified deep within the Earth.
  • Latin: The Romans adopted the Greek word as "crystallus" and extended its meaning to include other transparent minerals, such as glass.
  • Medieval Latin: During the Middle Ages, the word "crystallizāre" was coined to describe the process of forming crystals.
  • Early Modern English: The word "crystallize" entered the English language in the 17th century, initially referring to the formation of crystals in minerals or solutions.
  • Later Developments: Over time, the word's meaning expanded to include its metaphorical senses, such as the idea of something becoming clear or fixed in form.

crystallize relate terms

  • crystal

    Etymology Old English cristæl Proto Germanic kristallaz Greek krýstallos ice

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