Definition

Describing a temperature that is lower than the freezing point of water, which is 0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Example

The weather forecast predicts subfreezing temperatures tonight, so be sure to bundle up.

Conversation

I heard the weather is going to be subfreezing this weekend.

Really? I hope it doesn't snow too much.

Yeah, I prefer when it's just cold, not subfreezing with ice everywhere.

Same here! Let's just stay indoors and enjoy some hot cocoa.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subfreezing → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "freezing" (from the verb "freeze", which comes from Old English "freosan", meaning to become frozen). The word "subfreezing" describes temperatures that are below the freezing point.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'under' ('sub-') the point where water 'freezes' — that's why subfreezing refers to temperatures below freezing.

Visually Confused Words