Unfreeze: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in different contexts like finances or technology to mean lifting a restriction or limitation. It can also be used literally for ice or frozen items.

• The government decided to unfreeze the funds.
• Please unfreeze the computer by restarting it.
• Could you unfreeze the meat for dinner?

Typically refers to the process of something becoming unfrozen due to a rise in temperature. Often used about weather or food. Can also be used metaphorically to describe easing tensions or emotions.

• Leave the meat out to thaw.
• The ice began to thaw as spring approached.
• Their relationship started to thaw after the long argument.

Typically used in culinary contexts to describe the process of removing frost or ice from foods, particularly in preparation for cooking.

• Remember to defrost the chicken before cooking.
• The microwave has a defrost setting.
• I need to defrost the freezer; it's too full of ice.

Used to describe the process by which something solid becomes liquid or softer due to heat. Can be used metaphorically for emotions or conditions.

• The sun will melt the snow by noon.
• Her heart began to melt seeing the puppy.
• Melt the butter in a saucepan.

Utilized when referring to thawing something that has been frozen, both literally and metaphorically (such as assets or funds).

• Please unfreeze the chicken for dinner tonight.
• The government decided to unfreeze the company's assets.

Used when letting someone or something go, typically from a confined space or control. Can refer to emotions, physical release, or media (such as movies or music).

• They decided to release the bird back into the wild.
• She found it hard to release her anger after the incident.
• The new movie is set to release next week.

Used when referring to setting someone or something free from oppression or captivity. Often used in historical, social, or political contexts.

• The soldiers were on a mission to liberate the occupied town.
• Activists worked hard to liberate the prisoners of conscience.

Used when removing an obstruction, both physically and metaphorically. Frequently applied to clogged pipes, digital communication (like blocking a user), or mental obstacles.

• The plumber is coming to unblock the drain.
• He finally decided to unblock his ex on social media.
• She attended a workshop to unblock her creative energy.