Icicle: meaning, definitions and examples

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icicle

 

[ ˈaɪ.sɪ.kəl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

hanging from a roof

An icicle is a long, pointed, and thin piece of ice that forms when water dripping from a roof or other surface freezes.

Synonyms

ice spike, ice stalactite

Examples of usage

  • The children loved to watch the icicles hanging from the roof melt in the sun.
  • Icicles can be dangerous when they start to fall from the roof.

Etymology

The word 'icicle' originated from the Old English word 'gicel', which means 'icicle'. The use of icicles as decorations during the winter season dates back to ancient times, with people admiring their beauty and fragility. In some cultures, icicles are seen as a symbol of purity and transformation, as they form from water freezing in the cold air.

See also: deicing, ice, icebox, iced, icing, icy.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,025 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.