moisten

[moi-suhn]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become moist.

   Synonyms: spray, sponge, wet, dampen

moisten

/ ˈmɔɪsən /

verb

1. to make or become moist

Other Word Forms

• moistener noun
• overmoisten verb
• premoistened adjective
• remoisten verb
• supermoisten verb (used with object)
• unmoisten verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of moisten¹

First recorded in 1570–80; moist + -en ¹

Example Sentences

There’s nothing like a life-and-death situation turning out “life” to moisten one’s eyes, especially if you or a loved one has spent any time in the medical system, or feared the possibility.

From Los Angeles Times

With the air so dry — and not moistening up overnight — it is a “really concerning period for humidities,” Kittell said.

From Los Angeles Times

In the relatively new carbon dioxide method, developed in the early 1970s, producers use high-pressure CO₂ to extract caffeine from moistened coffee beans.

From Salon

As she spoke, her eyes began to moisten.

From Literature

Press the soil block maker into the moistened potting mix and rock back and forth to fill.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• dampen 
• drench 
• rinse 
• saturate 
• soak 
• sprinkle 
• squirt 
• steam 
• wash 
• wet