verb / noun
thaw
THAW/θɔː/
The release of a frozen substance into softness or liquid.
The ice thaws on the stone, releasing droplets into a shallow puddle.
Etymology
Old English þawian meant to make something frozen become liquid. English extended this to the corresponding change happening by itself, so ice can thaw without anyone actively melting it.
In context
You can also use frozen berries which work really great because as they thaw they let off a natural syrup which adds to that parfait as well.
More examples
- Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before cooking it.
- The spring thaw leaves muddy patches across the yard.
- Relations between the neighbors begin to thaw after their conversation.
Forms
thaw · thaws · thawed · thawing
Similar words
- melt
- Means becoming liquid, while thawing can leave something merely softened.
- defrost
- Often describes removing frost from appliances or thawing frozen food.