Meaning & Definition of word "Freeze"
to
Freeze
/friːz/
noun:
- 1. a period during which the temperature is low enough for water or other liquids to become solid.
- Example: We had a freeze last night that covered the ground with frost.
verb:
- 1. to become hard or solid as a result of extreme cold.
- Example: The pond will freeze overnight because the temperature has dropped.
- 2. to stop moving or to become motionless.
- Example: When she saw the snake, she froze in fear.
- 3. to stop something from changing or being affected.
- Example: The company's decision to freeze wages has caused frustration among employees.
Etymology
Old English frēosan, freosan (to be cold, to freeze); related to Old Norse frjósa.
Common Phrases and Expressions
freeze one's assets:
To prevent the movement of someone's financial assets.
freeze-frame:
A still image from a film or video taken at a specific moment.
freeze out:
To exclude someone from a group or activity.
Related Words
frost:
A thin layer of ice that forms on surfaces when temperatures drop.
chill:
An uncomfortable feeling of cold.
ice:
Frozen water.
Slang Meanings of freeze
Meaning: To stop or pause suddenly.
Example Sentence: When he saw his ex, he just froze.
Meaning: To become very still or unresponsive due to fear or surprise.
Example Sentence: The dog froze when it heard the thunder.