as in grows
to become mature
pears ripening on the tree
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Recent Examples of ripens
This variety is heat-tolerant and typically ripens later in summer, from July to August, says McCabe.
—
Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 12 Mar. 2026
The skin ripens to bright yellow with green stripes, and the flesh has a pink hue.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 3 Feb. 2026
The fruit ripens reliably, which leads to wines that feel generous and fruit driven without being jammy.
—Emily Price, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
The majority of Malbec in Bordeaux died out from frost in the 1950s, and Petit Verdot often ripens too late to make it into the final blend, so many vineyards have been replanted with other varieties over the years.
—Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 9 Nov. 2025
Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 12 Mar. 2026
The skin ripens to bright yellow with green stripes, and the flesh has a pink hue.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 3 Feb. 2026
The fruit ripens reliably, which leads to wines that feel generous and fruit driven without being jammy.
—Emily Price, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
The majority of Malbec in Bordeaux died out from frost in the 1950s, and Petit Verdot often ripens too late to make it into the final blend, so many vineyards have been replanted with other varieties over the years.
—Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 9 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ripens
Verb
-
Continuing down this path only increases uncertainty, undermines long-term infrastructure planning and grows the national debt.—
Andrew Stasiowski,
Boston Herald,
24 Apr. 2026
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As their mutual competitiveness grows shockingly ugly, Niall learns to turn Ruben’s Samsonian strength and fury against him, knocking down the pillars of Ruben’s own life.—
Inkoo Kang,
New Yorker,
24 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Travel is highly favored as the month progresses, and the social atmosphere is alive with meaningful connections waiting to be made.—
Steph Koyfman,
Condé Nast Traveler,
29 Apr. 2026
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As the virus progresses, dogs may suffer from abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea.—
Don Sweeney,
Sacbee.com,
28 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Ripens.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ripens. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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