defrost
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dɪˈfrɔst/
KK: /dɪˈfrɔst/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become free of ice or frost, or to thaw out.
Example
The meat will defrost if you leave it out at room temperature.
Tense Forms
Past: defrosted
Past Participle: defrosted
Conversation
Did you remember to defrost the chicken for dinner?
Oh no, I totally forgot about that!
No worries, it usually takes a while to defrost anyway.
True, I guess we can just cook something else in the meantime.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
thaw
melt
unfreeze
Antonyms
freeze
solidify
harden
transitive verb
Definition
To make something that is frozen become warmer so that it melts or thaws.
Example
I need to defrost the chicken before cooking it.
Tense Forms
Past: defrosted
Past Participle: defrosted
Conversation
Hey, did you remember to defrost the chicken before dinner?
Oops, I completely forgot about that!
No worries, we can just defrost it in the microwave for a bit.
Root Explanation
Defrost → It is formed from "de-" (meaning removal or reversal) and "frost" (from Old English "forst", meaning frozen moisture). The word "defrost" means to remove frost or to reverse the state of being frozen.
Memory Tip
Think of 'removing' ('de-') the 'frost' from something — that's what defrost means.
Visually Confused Words
frost
deforest