Definition

Noun: 1. The process of becoming hard or solid: The physical change of a substance from a liquid or soft state to a solid or hard state, typically due to cooling, drying, or crystallization. 2. The act of making something more stable or secure: (Less common) The process of strengthening or consolidating an abstract concept, such as a plan, relationship, or belief.

Usage and Examples

• The solidification of the molten lava created a new layer of rock.
• Scientists observed the solidification of the liquid metal as it cooled.
• The treaty marked the solidification of the alliance between the two nations. (Figurative use)
• The solidification of the jelly took several hours in the refrigerator.

Advanced Usage

• "Solidification point": The specific temperature at which a particular liquid becomes a solid.
  • The solidification point of water is 0 degrees Celsius.
• "Solidification front": (Technical) The boundary or interface between the solid and liquid phases during the solidification process.
  • The growth of the crystal is determined by the movement of the solidification front.

Variants and Related Words

• Solidify (verb): To make or become solid.
  • The mixture will solidify as it cools.
• Solid (noun/adjective): The state of matter that results from solidification; firm and stable in shape.
  • Ice is the solid form of water.
• Solidity (noun): The quality or state of being solid.
  • The solidity of the foundation is crucial for the building's safety.

Synonyms

• Hardening
• Setting
• Congealing
• Freezing (specifically due to cold)
• Crystallization (specifically forming a crystal structure)

Antonyms

• Liquefaction
• Melting
• Dissolution

Related Phrases and Technical Terms

• Phase change: The general term for a transition between solid, liquid, and gas states; solidification is one type of phase change.
• Latent heat of fusion: The heat released during the solidification process.
• To undergo solidification: A formal way to describe the process happening.
  • The alloy undergoes solidification at a very high temperature.

Noun

1. the process of becoming hard or solid by cooling or drying or crystallization
   • the hardening of concrete
   • he tested the set of the glue