Dégel (en. Thaw)

de-gel

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Phenomenon of deformation of frozen ground that occurs when the temperature rises.
The thaw caused landslides.
Le dégel a provoqué des glissements de terrain.
Moment when the ice begins to melt.
The usual spring thaw occurs in March.
Le dégel habituel du printemps a lieu en mars.

Etymology

The word 'thaw' is formed from the prefix 'de-' and the word 'gel', originating from the Latin 'gelare'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

premature thaw
Thaw that occurs earlier than expected, often related to the climate.
dégel prématuré
economic thaw
Situation where the economy begins to recover after a period of stagnation.
dégel économique

Related Words

freeze
State of hardening or freezing of a liquid.
gel
melting
Process by which a solid substance transforms into a liquid.
fonte

Slang Meanings

Chaotic or confusing situation.
That meeting was a real thaw; nobody knew what to do!
Cette réunion a été un vrai dégel, personne ne savait ce qu'il fallait faire!
Moment when tensions ease.
After the thaw of the discussions, everyone was more relaxed.
Après le dégel des discussions, tout le monde était plus détendu.