Definition

A device that heats up to remove frost or ice from surfaces, especially on vehicles or windows.

Example

I turned on the defroster to clear the ice from my car's windshield.

Conversation

I need to check if my car's defroster is working before winter hits.

Good idea! A faulty defroster can make driving really dangerous.

Yeah, I don't want to get stuck with ice on the windshield.

Right? It's better to be safe and make sure everything's in good shape.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Defroster → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "frost" (from Old English *forst*, meaning ice or frost) and the suffix "-er" (meaning one who). The word "defroster" refers to a device that removes frost or ice, effectively taking it away.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing frost' ('de-' means away and 'frost' refers to ice) — that's what a defroster does.

Visually Confused Words