Melt

Definition

Melt is a verb that refers to the process of a solid substance turning into a liquid, typically due to heat. It can also metaphorically mean to dissolve, soften, or become more tender. As a noun, it refers to the act or process of melting.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mɛlt/
• Respelling: MELT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mɛlt/
• Respelling: MELT

Etymology

The word "melt" originates from Old English "meltan," which means "to become liquid or dissolve." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*meltaną" and has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "melzan" and Old Norse "melta," both meaning "to digest or liquefy."

Derivatives

• Melting (verb, noun)
• Melter (noun)
• Melted (adjective)
• Meltdown (noun)
• Meltingly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Liquefy
• Dissolve
• Soften

Antonyms

• Freeze
• Solidify
• Harden

Usage

The term "melt" is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. For example, "The ice will melt under the sun's heat" (literal) or "Her heart seemed to melt when she heard the news" (figurative).

Related Terms

• Evaporate: To turn from liquid to vapor.
• Condense: To change from gas to liquid.
• Freeze: To change from liquid to solid.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To change from a solid to a liquid due to heat: Refers to the physical transformation of a substance.
  • Example: "The butter began to melt in the hot pan."
• To dissolve or blend into a liquid: Describes the action of a substance integrating with a liquid.
  • Example: "The sugar quickly melted in the hot tea."
• To soften or become tender: Used metaphorically to describe emotional or physical changes.
  • Example: "His stern expression melted into a smile."

Noun

• The process of melting: Refers to the action or event of a solid turning into a liquid.
  • Example: "The spring thaw caused a significant melt of the snow."