Frostbite

/ˈfrɔːst.baɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
an injury to body tissue caused by exposure to extreme cold, resulting in damage to skin and underlying tissues.
He suffered from frostbite after being stranded in the snow for several hours.
a condition characterized by the freezing of skin and underlying tissues.
Frostbite can lead to permanent damage if not treated promptly.
the progressive destruction of tissue due to freezing temperatures.
The hikers were warned about the risk of frostbite in the frigid temperatures.

Etymology

The term comes from 'frost' meaning frozen moisture and 'bite' implying a harmful effect.

Common Phrases and Expressions

frostbite prevention
Measures taken to avoid frostbite, especially in cold environments.
frostbite symptoms
Signs that indicate the presence of frostbite, such as numbness or discoloration.

Related Words

hypothermia
A condition of having an abnormally low body temperature.
chillblain
An inflammatory swelling on the skin caused by exposure to cold.

Slang Meanings

To be extremely cold.
That winter was so bad, I felt frostbite just stepping outside.