thaw
thaw Lexical Profile
thaw Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To become liquid or soft as a result of warming, or to cause something frozen to do so.
"Be sure to thaw the frozen turkey in the refrigerator for at least two days before roasting it."
To become more friendly, genial, or receptive after a period of reserve or hostility.
"Although he was initially aloof toward the new colleagues, his demeanor began to thaw over lunch."
• noun
A period of warmer weather that causes ice and snow to melt.
"The sudden spring thaw caused the river levels to rise rapidly across the valley."
An increase in friendliness or cordiality, especially in diplomatic or personal relations.
"The historic summit marked a significant thaw in relations between the two rival nations."
Word Nuance & Usage
In everyday conversation, the nonstandard word "unthaw" is sometimes used to mean "thaw," though in standard formal usage "thaw" or "defrost" is preferred.
• Rhymes for thaw
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from Old English 'þawian', meaning to melt or dissolve, from a Proto-Germanic root shared with Old Norse 'þeyja' and Dutch 'dooien'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.