Desiccates

To dry out or to cause something to lose moisture, often to the point of brittleness or dryness. This can occur naturally through exposure to air or the sun, or it can be a deliberate process used for preservation or other purposes. When something desiccates, it undergoes a significant reduction in water content, which can change its physical properties and texture. The resulting state is one of dryness, depletion of moisture, and often a loss of flexibility or pliability. This word also describes the state that something will become due to this process.

Desiccates meaning with examples

• The scorching desert sun desiccates the plants, leaving them brittle and brown. Without constant irrigation, the delicate flowers quickly succumb to the relentless heat. The gardener noticed the leaves **desiccate**, turning crispy and falling off because of the lack of rainfall, a major concern for this region. Even the hardiest of desert cacti need periodic moisture to survive.
• Left on the counter, the slice of bread began to **desiccate**, hardening into a stale, unappetizing crust. Exposure to the air robbed the bread of its moisture, which it lost to the outside environment and reduced its ability to be palatable. The once soft and yielding dough gradually became dry and crumbly.
• The scientist used a specialized oven to **desiccate** the tissue samples, preparing them for further analysis. Removing all moisture prevented any bacterial growth or decomposition during the long-term storage. The dry samples were crucial for the precise scientific measurements and ensured consistent and reliable experimental results.
• The intense heat of the fire quickly desiccates the wood, causing it to become flammable. Dry wood burns hotter and faster than damp wood because of its water-free properties. This principle explains how fire is able to spread so quickly, as the heat facilitates the dehydration.
• The ancient artifacts found in the tomb were well-preserved because the arid climate **desiccated** the organic materials, preventing them from decaying. The removal of moisture has allowed delicate items to be discovered centuries after they were first made. The lack of humidity slowed decomposition, providing a clear insight into the past.