as in to grow
to become mature
pears ripening on the tree
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Recent Examples of ripen
Mangoes ripen best stored at room temperature; to speed ripening, place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana.
—
Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Apr. 2026
As bananas ripen and turn yellow, their starch converts into natural sugars.
—Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 13 Apr. 2026
Store in a warm spot in your kitchen for about one month until fully ripened.
—Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026
Refrigeration stops ripening cold.
—Judy Bart Kancigor, Oc Register, 9 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ripen
Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Apr. 2026
As bananas ripen and turn yellow, their starch converts into natural sugars.
—Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 13 Apr. 2026
Store in a warm spot in your kitchen for about one month until fully ripened.
—Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026
Refrigeration stops ripening cold.
—Judy Bart Kancigor, Oc Register, 9 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ripen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ripen
Verb
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The front office also faced growing concerns about whether Reese’s presence would deter the signing of returning veterans and key free agents the Sky had targeted.—
Kalen Lumpkins,
Chicago Tribune,
30 Apr. 2026
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Like many of the exchanges with Democrats during the hearing, the back and forth grew heated, as Carbajal cut Hegseth off in the middle of his answer.—
Christopher Cann,
USA Today,
30 Apr. 2026
Verb
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An annual Impact Report that covers the full picture—from traceability and supply chain transparency to progress on materials, carbon and chemical management—is one way the brand provides a clear and verifiable view into its business.—
Angela Velasquez,
Footwear News,
27 Apr. 2026
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Freshmen Brock Boyd and Jerquaden Guilford also have a chance to earn playing time as the season progresses.—
Cameron Teague Robinson,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Ripen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ripen. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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