clot

Everyday

1. A clot is a thick, sticky lump that forms in a liquid, especially in blood. tree →
2. To clot means to become thick and form lumps; blood clots to stop bleeding. tree →
3. In British English, «a clot» is a silly, clumsy person (a mild, friendly insult). tree →

In the lessons

In science and first aid, blood clots to close a cut and stop it bleeding; a scab forms from a clot. A clot inside the body can be dangerous and needs a doctor. In British stories «you clot!» is a gentle way to say «you silly person». Phrases: blood clot, clotted cream.

Examples

• When you cut your finger, the blood starts to clot. tree →
• A scab is made from a dried blood clot. tree →
• The doctor said the clot in his leg needed treatment. tree →
• Milk left out can clot into lumps. tree →
• Scones with jam and clotted cream are a treat. tree →
• «You clot, you've put your jumper on backwards!» laughed my brother. tree →
• His keen starving eyes caught sight of a little red clot lying bright upon the green. tree →

Note

Countable noun: a clot, clots. Verb: clot, clotted, clotting (double t). Clotted cream is thick cream from England. Do not call someone a clot if it might hurt their feelings.