What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
icebox
Example
My grandmother used to keep her milk in the icebox. [icebox: noun]
Example
Can you grab some ice from the icebox for the party? [icebox: noun]
Example
We brought an icebox full of drinks to the picnic. [icebox: noun]
refrigerator
Example
I need to buy some groceries to fill up the refrigerator. [refrigerator: noun]
Example
The refrigerator is making a strange noise. [refrigerator: noun]
Example
Can you put the leftovers in the refrigerator? [refrigerator: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Refrigerator is more commonly used than icebox in everyday language. Icebox is an outdated term that is rarely used today, except in historical or nostalgic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between icebox and refrigerator?
Refrigerator is a more formal term than icebox, as it is the standard and widely accepted term for the modern appliance. Icebox may be considered informal or outdated in formal contexts.
