thaw

[θɔː]

thaw Definition

  • 1to change from a solid, frozen state to a liquid or semiliquid state as a result of an increase in temperature
  • 2to become friendlier or more cordial
  • 3a period of warmer weather that causes snow and ice to melt

Using thaw: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "thaw" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The sun came out and thawed the ice on the pond.

  • Example

    I need to thaw the chicken before cooking it.

  • Example

    Their relationship began to thaw after they had a heart-to-heart conversation.

  • Example

    The thaw in diplomatic relations between the two countries was a welcome development.

thaw Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for thaw

Phrases with thaw

  • to warm up after being very cold

    Example

    After skiing all day, we went inside to thaw out by the fire.

  • a thaw in relations

    an improvement in relations between two people or groups who have been unfriendly or hostile towards each other

    Example

    The summit led to a thaw in relations between the two countries.

  • a period of mild weather in January that causes snow and ice to melt

    Example

    The January thaw made the roads very slippery.

Origins of thaw

from Old English 'thawian', meaning 'to thaw, melt'

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Summary: thaw in Brief

The verb 'thaw' [θɔː] means to change from a solid, frozen state to a liquid or semiliquid state due to increased temperature. It can also mean to become friendlier or more cordial, as in 'Their relationship began to thaw after they had a heart-to-heart conversation.' 'Thaw' can also refer to a period of warmer weather that causes snow and ice to melt, such as 'the January thaw.'

How do native speakers use this expression?