siccare
The English phrase 'to dry' is translated into Latin as siccare.
The verb means to remove moisture from something.
Which one should you use?
The form exsiccare is a formal alternative used to express the same meaning.
How does it change in a sentence?
siccare is a first conjugation verb in its infinitive form. If you wish to say 'he/she/it dried', use the third-person singular perfect indicative active form siccavit.
Did you know?
- The word siccus, the adjective for 'dry', was used by Roman authors as a metaphor for a style of writing that was concise and devoid of unnecessary ornamentation.
- In ancient Roman medical theory, 'dryness' was one of the four fundamental qualities of the body, often contrasted with 'moisture' to explain health and temperament.
- The formal version exsiccare is the ancestor of the English word 'desiccate', which specifically implies removing all moisture to the point of brittleness.
Examples in context
- Vestis paulatim siccatur.The clothing slowly dries.
- Hanc linteam siccare debemus.We must dry this towel.
- Volo crines meos siccare.I want to dry my hair.
- Pedes siccare post pluviam oportet.One ought to dry the feet after the rain.
Example conversation
Lucia and Gaius are cleaning up after a meal.
- LuciaUbi possum siccare pocula?Where can I dry the cups?
- GaiusUtere hoc panno, Lucia.Use this cloth, Lucia.
- LuciaGratias, Gai.Thank you, Gaius.
- GaiusLibenter, siccare eos festina.You're welcome, hurry to dry them.
