Freezing

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈfɹiːz.ɪŋ/
• Rhymes: -iːzɪŋ

Full definition of freezing

Adjective

1. (literally) Suffering or causing frost
2. (by extension, chiefly hyperbole) Very cold

Synonyms

• (literally) frosty
• (very cold) ice-cold, icy

Noun

1. (uncountable, physics, chemistry) The change in state of a substance from liquid to solid by cooling to a critically low temperature.
• 1829, James Macauley, The natural, statistical, and civil history of the state of New YorkHence, there is a succession of thawings and freezings. The former expand, and endeavour to restore the surface of the ground to its natural condition, while the latter contract and harden it.
2. (countable, medicine) The action of numbing with anesthetics.

Synonyms

• frost

Related terms

• freeze-dry
• freezer

Verb

1. Present participle of freeze

Derived terms

• freezing point