Thawed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'thaw' comes from Old English 'þawian,' which means to melt or become warm.
• Historically, it has been used since at least the 15th century to describe the melting of frost or snow.
• The term reflects a transformation, indicating a shift from solid to liquid states.

Climate Science

• Thawing is a critical process in climate change studies, especially concerning permafrost in polar regions.
• When frozen ground thaws, it can release stored carbon dioxide and methane, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
• The timing and speed of thawing can significantly affect local ecosystems and weather patterns.

Food Safety

• Proper thawing of food is essential to prevent bacterial growth, which can cause foodborne illnesses.
• The safest methods for thawing include refrigeration, cold water, or cooking directly without defrosting.
• Many people prepare meals in advance and then need to thaw the food correctly for safe consumption.

Literature

• In poetry, thawing often symbolizes renewal or the end of harsh conditions, offering new beginnings.
• Characters in literature might experience 'thawing' moments, indicating emotional growth or release of past traumas.
• Notable authors use the metaphor of thawing to express transformation, connecting winter's end with hope.

Art

• Artists often depict the process of thawing as a way to represent change, fragility, and the passing of time.
• In visual artworks, melting ice or snow can symbolize transition from isolation to community.
• The visual effects of thawing create stunning contrasts in nature, inspiring many landscape painters.

Positioned at #20,100, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 20097 evicted
• 20098 laboriously
• 20099 stiffening
• 20100 thawed
• 20101 equating
• 20102 hoses
• 20103 reestablished
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