Definitions

1. verb

to become or cause to become hardened or rigid, especially by the deposit of calcium salts

“The athlete’s injury began to ossify over time, making it difficult to move.”

2. verb

to become or cause to become less flexible or adaptable, often in a way that is seen as negative

“The company’s policies have ossified over the years, making it difficult to innovate.”

3. noun

the process of becoming or causing to become hardened or rigid, especially by the deposit of calcium salts

“The doctor examined the patient’s X-ray to see if the bone had started to ossify.”

4. noun

a hardened or rigid structure or area, especially one caused by the deposit of calcium salts

“The fossilized tree trunk showed signs of advanced ossification.”