Comments on: It does what?

By: Erwin

Erwin — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:29:44 +0000

The interpretation of thicken as to grow more intricate/complex is an odd one. Makes me wonder if that was retro-fitted to explain the plot thickens expression in the first place.

I’m now imagining (also because of your other comment) a plot of land where the forest is getting thicker towards the end, as a way to visualize the expression.

By: Kalle

Kalle — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:58:19 +0000

Another entry goes:
“To make or become more intense, intricate, or complex: The leader’s departure thickens the problems. Our apprehension thickened.”

The entry for “through thick and thin”, which seems related, goes:
“Despite all obstacles or adversities, as in ‘She promised to stand by him through thick and thin.’ This term alludes to penetrating a forest with both thick and sparse undergrowth. Today it is nearly always used with the idea of supporting something or someone in all circumstances, as in the example. [Late 1300s]“

By: Kalle

Kalle — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:56:09 +0000

thick·en /ˈθɪkən/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[thik-uhn] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–verb (used with object), verb (used without object)
1. to make or become thick or thicker.
2. to make or grow more intense, profound, intricate, or complex: The plot thickens.

Number two there matches nicely. (dictionary.com’s entry for ‘thicken’)

-Kalle.