Definition

Noun: * The process of forming semisolid lumps in a liquid: The act or process by which a liquid, especially milk, thickens and separates into solid curds and liquid whey, often due to the action of acids, enzymes (like rennet), or heat.

Usage

The word "curdling" is used to describe the specific chemical or physical change where a homogeneous liquid becomes lumpy and separates. It is most commonly associated with dairy products but can apply to other liquids like sauces or eggs. * It is typically used as a noun (gerund) to name the process itself. * It can also function as a verb in its base form ("to curdle") or as a present participle ("the curdling milk").

Examples

• The curdling of the milk was a sign it had spoiled.
• Adding lemon juice to hot cream will cause curdling.
• To make cheese, the first step is the curdling of the milk with rennet.
• She prevented the curdling of the custard by cooking it slowly over low heat.

Advanced Usage

• Metaphorical Use: "Curdling" can describe a similar process of separation or spoilage in non-physical contexts, such as emotions or atmospheres.
  • The joyful mood was curdling into suspicion and fear.
• As a Verb (Curdle): Often used in phrases like "make one's blood curdle," meaning to cause extreme horror or fear.
  • The eerie scream was enough to curdle the blood.

Variants and Related Words

• Curdle (verb): To cause or undergo the process of curdling. (e.g., )
• Curd (noun): The solid lumps formed during curdling.
• Curdy (adjective): Having the texture of or resembling curds; lumpy.
• Coagulation (noun): A more general scientific term for the process of a liquid changing to a solid or semi-solid state, often used synonymously with curdling in certain contexts (e.g., blood coagulation).

Synonyms

• Clotting
• Coagulating
• Congealing
• Thickening (into lumps)
• Separating

Related Phrases

• To curdle someone's blood: To terrify or horrify someone profoundly.
  • The ghost story was so frightening it curdled my blood.
• Curdle from/with: To specify the agent causing the curdling.
  • The milk curdled from the heat. / The sauce curdled with the addition of vinegar.

Noun

1. the process of forming semisolid lumps in a liquid