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thaw

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /θɔː/

KK: /θɔ/

intransitive verb
Definition

To change from a frozen state to a liquid state as it warms up, or to become less formal or reserved.


Example

The ice will thaw when the temperature rises above freezing.


Tense Forms

Past: thawed

Past Participle: thawed


Conversation
Sloth A
I hope the weather warms up soon so the ice will thaw.
Sloth B
Yeah, it has been freezing for too long!
Sloth A
I can't wait for spring when everything starts to thaw out.
Sloth B
Same here! I miss seeing all the flowers bloom.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
melt
defrost
unfreeze
Antonyms
freeze
harden
solidify
noun
Definition

A time when warm weather causes ice and snow to melt.


Example

The thaw in early spring allowed the rivers to flow freely again.


Conversation
Sloth A
I love how the weather is changing; it feels like a real thaw is happening.
Sloth B
Yeah, the warmth is such a nice break from the cold.
Sloth A
I hope it stays like this for a while, I can't wait for spring.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make something that is frozen become soft or liquid by warming it up.


Example

I need to thaw the chicken before cooking it.


Tense Forms

Past: thawed

Past Participle: thawed


Conversation
Sloth A
Do you think we should thaw the chicken before cooking it?
Sloth B
Definitely! It will cook more evenly that way.
Sloth A
I always forget to thaw it in advance.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

The word 'thaw' originates from Old English 'þawian', meaning to melt or become liquid. It describes the process of ice or snow turning into water as temperatures rise.

Memory Tip

Imagine ice 'melting' as it 'becomes liquid' — that's what thaw means.

Visually Confused Words
thraw
tha
taw
haw
unthaw
thrawn
rethaw
Is this page helpful?
Me too! A good thaw is just what we need to lift our spirits.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
melt
defrost
unfreeze
Antonyms
freeze
chill
solidify
No worries, just put it in cold water for a quick thaw!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
melt
liquefy
soften
Antonyms
freeze
harden
solidify