Frostbitten: meaning, definitions and examples

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frostbitten

 

[ ˈfrɔːstˌbɪtən ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

cold exposure

Frostbitten refers to damage to skin and other tissues caused by extreme cold. It typically affects the fingers, toes, ears, and nose, which are more susceptible to freezing temperatures. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and in severe cases, blisters or blackened skin. Immediate treatment is important to prevent long-term damage and complications.

Synonyms

chilled, frozen, ice-damaged

Examples of usage

  • He suffered frostbitten fingers after being outside in the snow for too long.
  • The climbers were careful to check for frostbitten skin during their ascent.
  • After the hike, several members of the group reported frostbitten toes.
  • Frostbitten skin can lead to infections if not treated properly.

Translations

Translations of the word "frostbitten" in other languages:

🇵🇹 congelado

🇮🇳 जमी हुई

🇩🇪 frostbedeckt

🇮🇩 beku

🇺🇦 обморожений

🇵🇱 zmrożony

🇯🇵 凍傷の

🇫🇷 gelé

🇪🇸 congelado

🇹🇷 donmuş

🇰🇷 동상에 걸린

🇸🇦 مجمد

🇨🇿 omrzlý

🇸🇰 omrznutý

🇨🇳 冻伤的

🇸🇮 zmrznjen

🇮🇸 frostbitinn

🇰🇿 мұздаған

🇬🇪 ყინულით დაზიანებული

🇦🇿 donmuş

🇲🇽 congelado

Etymology

The term 'frostbitten' is derived from the combination of 'frost,' which comes from the Old English word 'forst,' meaning 'frost, freezing,' and 'bitten,' a form of the verb 'bite.' The word 'bite' has roots in Old English 'bītan,' which conveys the action of 'to bite.' The formation of 'frostbitten' in the English language signifies the physical damage inflicted by the biting chill of frost on living tissue. Its usage became more prominent in the context of outdoor activities and survival situations, particularly as people began exploring colder climates. With increasing instances of cold weather exposure, the term has been used in medical literature to describe the condition of tissues that undergo changes due to freezing, leading to possible necrosis or gangrene if left untreated. The meaning has evolved into both a literal and a figurative expression of extreme cold exposure, often highlighting the dangers associated with winter conditions.