Moistener

A moistener is a substance, object, or device that adds moisture to something, making it damp or slightly wet. This can involve introducing water or a liquid with similar properties, or preventing the loss of existing moisture. Moistening is often done to improve pliability, prevent dryness, or enhance a material's properties for a specific application. The function of a moistener is to hydrate a material, thereby preventing cracking, or improving performance.

Moistener meaning with examples

• The baker used a moistener in the form of a water sprayer to keep the dough from drying out during the proofing process, allowing the bread to rise to its full potential. This simple technique ensured a perfectly textured loaf.
• In humid climates, the air itself can act as a moistener, causing issues for paper or other materials susceptible to water damage, as they absorb moisture from their environment.
• During the printing process, rollers act as *moisteners* when adding water or ink onto the paper ensuring a consistent distribution of the ink and the paper being receptive.
• Potters use a wet sponge as a moistener to smooth out imperfections and keep clay pliable, preventing it from cracking during shaping and firing.