VocabDictionary

thaw

/θɔː/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To become melted or liquid as a result of warming up, or to cause something frozen to return to room temperature.

Example Sentences:
  • The snow began to thaw as the spring sun warmed the valley.
  • Make sure to completely thaw the chicken before cooking it.
2.noun

A period of weather that is warm enough to melt ice and snow.

Example Sentences:
  • The sudden thaw caused localized flooding across the rural roads.
  • We can finally store our heavy winter coats now that the big thaw has arrived.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “thaw”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old English verb 'þāwian' (to melt, thaw), of Germanic origin; cognate with Dutch 'dauen' and German 'tauen', all stemming from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to wet' or 'damp'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of ice turning to water on a warm day, sounding like a sigh of relief: 'Ahhh... thaw'.

Common Collocations & Phrases
Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “thaw

1. What is the meaning of “thaw” in English?

In English, thaw (verb) is defined as: “To become melted or liquid as a result of warming up, or to cause something frozen to return to room temperature.”.

2. How do you use “thaw” in a sentence?

The snow began to thaw as the spring sun warmed the valley.

3. What are English synonyms of “thaw”?

Common synonyms include:melt,defrost,liquefy,soften

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “thaw”?

Derived from the Old English verb 'þāwian' (to melt, thaw), of Germanic origin; cognate with Dutch 'dauen' and German 'tauen', all stemming from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to wet' or 'damp'.