defrost

[dih-frawst, -frost]

verb (used with object)

1. to remove the frost or ice from.

   to defrost a refrigerator; to defrost the windshield of a car.

2. to thaw or partially thaw (frozen food).

verb (used without object)

1. to become free of ice or frost.

   The refrigerator defrosted quickly.

2. to thaw, as frozen food.

   The meat took two hours to defrost.

defrost

/ diːˈfrɒst /

verb

1. to make or become free of frost or ice

2. to thaw, esp through removal from a refrigerator

Word History and Origins

Origin of defrost¹

First recorded in 1890–95; de- + frost

Example Sentences

The cake is sold frozen and needs to be defrosted in the fridge overnight before it’s ready to eat.

From Salon

The steaks are aged for 21 days and arrive frozen and individually vacuum-sealed so they can be pulled out of the freezer and quickly defrosted whenever the urge strikes.

From Salon

Alaska is both the most climate-vulnerable state in the nation and, with its ice-locked methane beginning to defrost, a virtual climate bomb.

From Los Angeles Times

Once the meat is defrosted, cook it immediately.

From Salon

Staff at Network Rail will also be equipped with specialist kits to defrost frozen points and signals to keep the railway running safely.

From BBC

Related Words

• thaw