The word "mellowing" is spelled with two L's because the phonetic transcription /ˈmɛl.oʊ.ɪŋ/ indicates that the stress falls on the second syllable, which contains the letter "L". The spelling of this word follows English rules for adding the suffix "-ing" to a base word, which in this case is "mellow". The word "mellow" refers to something that is softened or relaxed, and "mellowing" refers to the process of becoming more mellow or calm over time.
Mellowing is a verb derived from the adjective "mellow," which refers to the state of being pleasantly smooth, soft, and ripe, particularly in regards to flavors or sounds. In a broader sense, "mellow" can also denote the quality of calmness, gentleness, and maturity, often associated with a person or their temperament.
When used as a verb, "mellowing" refers to the process of becoming or making something mellow. It generally involves the gradual development or enhancement of a desirable attribute, such as flavor, sound, or temperament, by allowing it to reach a ripe or mature state. This process can also involve tempering or softening the harshness, intensity, or acidity of something, making it more pleasant and enjoyable.
In the context of food or drink, "mellowing" commonly refers to the aging or maturing process, which allows the flavors to develop and blend harmoniously. For example, wine may benefit from mellowing through aging, resulting in a smoother and more balanced taste. Similarly, certain cheeses or fruits can become mellowed with time, intensifying their desirable qualities.
Metaphorically, "mellowing" can be used to describe the process of personal growth or a shift in temperament towards a more calm, restrained, and accepting state. It implies the moderation of youthful exuberance, impatience, or rigid opinions, leading to a more balanced and wise outlook. This can occur naturally with age or as a deliberate effort to cultivate a mellow disposition.
The word "mellowing" is derived from the verb "mellow", which dates back to the late 15th century. The etymology of "mellow" can be traced to Middle English "melwe" and Old English "meolwe", both of which mean "soft" or "ripe". These Old English and Middle English terms ultimately originated from the Proto-Germanic word "malwjaną", meaning "to become soft" or "to ripen". The word "mellowing" is formed by adding the suffix "-ing" to "mellow", creating a gerund or present participle form of the verb.