Melt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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melt
[mษlt ]
Definitions
changing state
To change from a solid to a liquid state by applying heat; to become liquefied by warmth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| melt |
Used when a solid turns into a liquid typically due to heat. Commonly used for solids such as ice, chocolate, or wax.
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| dissolve |
Refers to a solid that is incorporated into a liquid, making it disappear. Often used in chemical or cooking contexts.
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| liquefy |
Used when something is turned into a liquid state, often involving a process or change in condition. Can be applied to solids and gases.
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| thaw |
Used specifically for frozen items that are returning to their liquid or unfrozen state, often due to an increase in temperature.
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Examples of usage
- The snow will melt in the sun.
- He melted the chocolate in a double boiler.
emotional
To become tender or loving; to feel strong emotions, especially love or sympathy.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| melt |
See the context and examples above, since 'melt' is repeated.
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| soften |
To make something softer, either physically or metaphorically. Can describe texture or attitudes.
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| touch |
To come into physical contact with something or someone. It can also describe a gentle or emotional impact.
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| move |
To change position or place. It can be used for physical movement or to describe emotional impact.
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Examples of usage
- His heart melted when he saw the puppy.
- She melted at the sight of the baby.
food
A dish made by blending cheese, milk, and seasonings until smooth and creamy.
Synonyms
cheese dip, fondue.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| melt |
Use this when referring to a solid converting to a liquid, often due to heat. It's commonly used for ice, butter, or other substances that change their state.
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| cheese dip |
Use this in situations where you refer to a sauce made from melted cheese, often used as a dip for snacks like chips, vegetables, or bread.
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| fondue |
This term is often used in a social or dining context where melted cheese (or sometimes chocolate) is served in a communal pot for dipping pieces of bread, fruit, or vegetables. It has a gourmet or special occasion connotation.
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Examples of usage
- We enjoyed a delicious bowl of cheese melt.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Melting occurs at a specific temperature known as the melting point, which varies for different substances.
- When ice melts, it absorbs heat energy from its surroundings, making the environment cooler.
- Phase changes in matter, such as melting, are crucial for understanding various scientific principles, including thermodynamics.
Art and Culture
- Artists often use melting imagery to represent change, loss, or the passage of time in their work, like Salvador Dalรญ's melting clocks.
- In filmmaking, melting visuals can symbolize vulnerability or transformation, creating emotional impact.
- The concept of melting has been used in literature to evoke feelings related to love, loss, and nostalgia.
Pop Culture
- The iconic scene in the movie 'Frozen' depicts the dangers of letting emotions 'melt' away, highlighting themes of love and acceptance.
- In cooking shows, melting chocolate is a popular technique that's visually appealing and delicious.
- Songs about melting, such as 'Melting' by the artist Aimee Mann, describe emotional warmth and connection.
Psychology
- The term 'melting away' can describe the feeling of anxiety diminishing, illustrating emotional release.
- In therapy, participants might use metaphorical melting to discuss letting go of pain or stress.
- Children learning about emotions might relate to the idea of feelings melting away to express moments of sadness or joy.
Origin of 'melt'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'melt' comes from the Old English 'meltan,' which means to dissolve or become liquid.
- Related words in other languages include 'fondre' in French and 'schmelzen' in German, both meaning to melt.
- The transition from solid to liquid has been described in texts dating back to the 12th century.
The word 'melt' has origins in Old English, with roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'maltijanan'. Over time, the meaning of 'melt' has evolved to encompass both physical and emotional states of transformation. The use of 'melt' to describe the process of changing from a solid to a liquid dates back to ancient times, while its emotional connotation emerged in Middle English. Today, 'melt' is a versatile word used in various contexts.
See also: meltable, meltdown, melted, melting, melts, molten, unmeltable.