Freezing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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freezing
[ˈfriːzɪŋ ]
Definitions
weather
Turning into ice as a result of extreme cold.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| freezing |
Used to describe extremely cold temperatures, often to emphasize discomfort from such temperatures.
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| icy |
Used to describe surfaces covered with ice or something extremely cold, often creating a slippery or dangerous condition.
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| frozen |
Refers to something that is turned into ice or solidified due to extreme cold. It can describe both animate and inanimate objects.
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| chilled |
Commonly used to describe something that has been cooled but is not frozen. Often refers to beverages or food that are served cold.
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Examples of usage
- The water in the lake was freezing.
- I could feel my toes freezing in the snow.
temperature
Extremely cold.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| freezing |
Used to describe extremely cold weather or temperatures that are below the freezing point of water. It can also be used informally to describe a room or place that feels very cold.
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| icy |
Describes something covered with ice or very cold, and can be used for physical objects, people, or interactions. It often implies slippery surfaces and can have a negative connotation when describing social interactions.
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| chilly |
Best used to describe mild cold, when the temperature is a bit uncomfortable but not extreme. It can also be used to describe a feeling or atmosphere that is emotionally cold or unfriendly.
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| frigid |
Describes very cold temperatures. More formal than 'freezing' and often used to emphasize the severity of the cold. Can also describe a person who is unemotional or unfriendly, often in a negative way.
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Examples of usage
- The freezing wind made it hard to walk outside.
- She wore a thick coat to stay warm in the freezing weather.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Scientific Process
- Freezing is the process where a liquid turns into a solid when the temperature drops.
- Water freezes at 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit), which is the temperature at which it becomes ice.
- Different liquids freeze at different temperatures. For example, alcohol freezes at a much lower temperature than water.
Cultural Expressions
- The phrase 'freezing' is often used in everyday language to describe extreme cold, as in 'I'm freezing!'
- In literature, freezing can symbolize emotional coldness or a lack of warmth in relationships.
- Many cultures have folklore that involves freezing temperatures, often featuring stories about survival and resilience in the face of winter.
Environmental Impact
- Freezing temperatures are essential for frost and snowfall, which play a crucial role in ecosystems and water supply.
- Polar regions experience extreme freezing conditions that affect local wildlife, making them adapt to survive in harsh environments.
- Climate change is affecting freezing patterns, leading to less ice formation in some areas, impacting global ecosystems.
Technology Applied
- Freezing technology is used in food preservation, helping to keep items fresh for longer periods by slowing microbial growth.
- Cryogenics, the study of materials at extremely low temperatures, is used in medical fields, including organ preservation for transplants.
- In computing, freezing can refer to a device becoming unresponsive, often needing a reset to function normally again.
Health and Safety
- Extreme freezing temperatures can lead to frostbite, a serious condition where skin and underlying tissues freeze.
- Dressing appropriately for freezing conditions is crucial to prevent hypothermia, a life-threatening situation where body temperature drops too low.
- Certain health conditions, such as asthma, can be aggravated by freezing temperatures, making it vital for affected individuals to stay warm.
Origin of 'freezing'
The word 'freezing' originates from the Old English word 'freosan', meaning 'to freeze'. Over time, the word evolved to represent the concept of extreme cold or the process of turning into ice. The use of 'freezing' to describe very cold temperatures dates back centuries, reflecting humanity's experience with harsh winter conditions.
See also: freeze, freezer, frozen, unfreeze, unfreezing.