Refrigerator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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refrigerator
[rษชหfrษชdสษหreษชtษr ]
Definitions
kitchen appliance
A refrigerator is a large metal container that is kept cold inside and is used for keeping food fresh.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| refrigerator |
A formal and technical term, often used in academic, professional, or official settings to refer to the appliance used for keeping food and drinks cold.
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| fridge |
A common and informal term often used in everyday conversation. This term is widely accepted in both casual and semi-formal settings.
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| icebox |
A somewhat outdated and historical term, originally referring to early refrigeration devices that used ice to keep items cold. It may still be used in specific regional dialects or to evoke a nostalgic or old-fashioned tone.
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Examples of usage
- The milk goes in the refrigerator to keep it cold.
- I need to buy some vegetables to put in the refrigerator.
- She opened the refrigerator and grabbed a bottle of water.
household necessity
A refrigerator is an essential appliance in most homes, used to store perishable food items.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| refrigerator |
This term is formal and commonly used in written communication, manuals, and professional settings. It is also appropriate when discussing appliances in general terms.
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| fridge |
This is an informal and widely used term, particularly in everyday conversation and casual contexts. It's a short form of 'refrigerator' and is commonly used at home or among friends.
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| cooler |
Use 'cooler' when referring to a portable insulated container used to keep food and drinks cold, especially during outdoor activities such as picnics or camping.
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Examples of usage
- Ice cream should be stored in the freezer section of the refrigerator.
- The refrigerator door was covered with magnets and photos.
- She stocked the refrigerator with fresh fruits and vegetables.
commercial use
In commercial settings, a refrigerator is often used to store large quantities of food and beverages at cold temperatures.
Synonyms
chiller, cold storage.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| refrigerator |
Common household appliance used to keep food and drinks cold.
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| chiller |
Typically used in commercial settings to cool large areas or specific items requiring consistent low temperatures.
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| cold storage |
Refers to specialized facilities designed to store perishable goods at low temperatures, often used in logistics and food processing industries.
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Examples of usage
- The restaurant had a walk-in refrigerator for storing meat and dairy products.
- The supermarket installed new refrigerators to keep their products fresh.
- The laboratory required a specialized refrigerator for storing sensitive samples.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Innovations
- The first practical refrigerator for homes was invented in 1913 by Fred W. Wolf.
- Before electric refrigerators, people used iceboxes, which were insulated boxes that held ice to keep food cool.
- Refrigeration technology dramatically changed food preservation, impacting both home kitchens and the food industry.
Science and Technology
- Refrigerators work by using a refrigerant that changes from liquid to gas, absorbing heat and keeping the interior cool.
- The average refrigerator uses about 10% of a household's energy consumption, making it an essential yet energy-consuming device.
- Modern refrigerators often include features like smart technology that can monitor food storage and even notify you when youโre running low on essentials.
Cultural Impact
- In many cultures, the refrigerator is often a gathering place for family members, reflecting its central role in daily life.
- Food-related social traditions, like sharing meals, have flourished with the ability to store food properly.
- The refrigerator has become a symbol of convenience in modern life, changing how we shop and cook.
Pop Culture
- In various movies and TV shows, refrigerators have featured as crucial props, often storing comic relief snacks or unexpected surprises.
- Animated films often use refrigerators as settings for quirky characters, like talking food and adventure plots.
- The image of a refrigerator is frequently used in advertisements to symbolize freshness and health.
Origin of 'refrigerator'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'refrigerare', which means 'to cool again'.
- In the 19th century, the word 'refrigerator' referred specifically to a machine that kept things cold.
- The use of 'refrigerator' in English dates back to the late 1800s, reflecting advancements in home appliances.
The word 'refrigerator' originates from the Latin word 'refrigerare', meaning 'to make cool'. The concept of refrigeration has been around for centuries, with early methods including ice houses and natural ice storage. The modern electric refrigerator was invented in the early 20th century, revolutionizing the way food was stored and preserved.