fatten - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
fatten Word Meanings
- to make or become fat
- to increase in weight
- to enrich or make prosperous
fatten Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
fatten Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfæt.ən/
US
/ˈfæt.ən/
fatten Word Etymology
Root decomposition: fat + -en. Historical origin: from Old English 'fǣttian' derived from 'fæt' meaning 'fat', influenced by Old French. Memory image: Picture a farm where animals are fattened for the feast; the act of making them plumper signifies abundance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Fatten means to make or become fat; it can also mean to gain weight, and, in a figurative sense, to enrich or make prosperous. It is most commonly used for animals that are fed to increase meat yield before slaughter, but people and economies can be fattened up as well. The verb is usually transitive with an object, or used with up in phrases like fatten up. The etymology combines fat with -en, tracing back to Old English fǣttian and influenced by Old French. Memory image: a farm where animals are fattened for a feast, a sign of abundance and preparation for celebration.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: fatten up is about making something heavier or richer; avoid using fatten for simply describing a person as overweight; use 'gain weight' instead. Consider the context: animals in farming vs. economies in figurative speech. The phrase 'fatten the purse' is common in business writing. Keep the object concrete when possible. Use intransitive forms like 'fatten up' with people or animals.
Common Misconceptions
- It only applies to animals, not people.
- Fatten means suddenly getting fat; it implies rapid weight gain.
- Fatten and fatten up are interchangeable in all contexts.
- It is about cosmetic appearance rather than nourishment or prosperity.
- The word can be used for situations that are naturally fattening without any intention.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate literal weight gain from metaphorical prosperity in distinct ways; learners must note that fatten can describe animals or economies, but not all contexts easily map to 'making someone fat' as a compliment. Also, 'fatten up' is more common when implying effort to improve a situation.
Learning Tips
- Practice transitive and intransitive uses with different objects
- Learn common collocations: fatten up, fatten the animals
- Differentiate literal weight gain from figurative prosperity
- Note regional preferences: some contexts feel more formal
- Use the etymology to remember: fat + -en
- Create your own sentences to reinforce context
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'fatten' mean?
A.To make something thinner
B.To make something larger or plumper
C.To remove fat from something
D.To increase something's speed
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'fatten' correctly?
A.I need to fatten my speed before the race.
B.She decided to fatten her grades by studying less.
C.They planned to fatten the pig for the county fair.
D.The dress will fatten her appearance.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'fatten'?
A.Thin
B.Enlarge
C.Decrease
D.Condense
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'fatten'?
A.Grow
B.Feed
C.Trim
D.Nourish
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of fattening livestock?
A.A chef prepares a gourmet meal.
B.A farmer raises animals to sell for food.
C.A gardener plants seasonal flowers.
D.A dog runs around chasing its tail.
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