Freeze

Definition

Freeze refers to the process of becoming solid or rigid due to cold temperatures, typically when a liquid turns into a solid. It can also describe a sudden cessation of movement, activity, or progress. In computing, it refers to a temporary halt in system operations.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /friːz/
• Respelling: FREEZ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /friːz/
• Respelling: FREEZ

Etymology

The word "freeze" originates from Old English "freosan," meaning "to freeze or turn to ice," derived from Proto-Germanic "*freusaną" and Proto-Indo-European "*prews-" (to freeze or burn). It has retained its fundamental meaning across centuries.

Derivatives

• Freezing (adjective/verb)
• Frozen (adjective)
• Freeze-dried (adjective)
• Refreeze (verb)
• Freezable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Solidify
• Harden
• Pause

Antonyms

• Melt
• Thaw
• Flow

Usage

The verb "freeze" is widely used in various contexts, such as "Water will freeze at 0°C," or "She froze when she heard the unexpected news." As a noun, it can refer to a period of extreme cold ("A sudden freeze damaged the crops") or a temporary halt ("The company issued a hiring freeze").

Related Terms

• Frost: A thin layer of ice that forms on surfaces.
• Ice: The solid state of water.
• Chill: A moderate or slight coldness.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To become solid or rigid due to cold temperatures: Describes the transformation of a liquid into a solid state.
  • Example: "The pond froze overnight."
• To suddenly stop moving or acting: Refers to a temporary pause in activity or motion.
  • Example: "He froze in fear when he saw the snake."
• To halt operations or progress temporarily: Often used in economic, political, or technical contexts.
  • Example: "The government decided to freeze wages during the crisis."

Noun

• A period of extremely cold weather: Refers to freezing temperatures that impact the environment or living conditions.
  • Example: "The sudden freeze destroyed the crops."
• A cessation or pause in activity: Describes a temporary stop or delay.
  • Example: "The company imposed a hiring freeze to cut costs."
• A state of becoming solid or rigid: Refers to the physical state resulting from freezing.
  • Example: "The pipes are at risk of a freeze during the winter."