Thaw

/θɔː/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the process of melting or the state of being thawed.

The thaw was rapid this year, leading to flooding in several areas.

the period when the ground thaws in spring.

The farmers eagerly awaited the thaw to begin planting their crops.

verb

to transition from a frozen state to a liquid state due to warming.

The sun began to shine, causing the snow to thaw slowly.

to become free from the effects of frost or freezing.

It took several hours for the pipes to thaw after the cold snap.

to relax, soften, or ease, particularly in terms of emotions or relations.

After their disagreement, she felt that he had started to thaw towards her.

Old English thwēon, related to the Dutch 'douwen' and German 'tauen'.

no longer frozen:

Referring to something that has ceased to be in a frozen state.

thaw out:

To become warm after being cold or frozen.

thawing tension:

Describing a reduction in hostility or stiffness in a situation.

To lighten up or relax.

After the meeting, she finally thawed and started joking with us.

To become more friendly or approachable.

He was really cold at first, but he thawed out once we got to know him.