The word “curing” refers to the process of preserving or treating food, materials, or other substances to prevent decay, spoilage, or deterioration. In the context of food, curing often involves the addition of salt, sugar, or other preservatives to extend shelf life and enhance flavor, as seen in cured meats like ham or bacon. In a broader sense, curing can also refer to the process of healing or improving a health condition. In materials science, it can mean the process of hardening or setting a substance, such as concrete or paint, through chemical or physical changes.