B1verb 1K

Freeze

UK /["/friːz/","/ˈfriːzɪz/","/frəʊz/","/ˈfrəʊzn/","/ˈfriːzɪŋ/"]/ US /["/friːz/","/ˈfriːzɪz/","/frəʊz/","/ˈfrəʊzn/","/ˈfriːzɪŋ/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

to become hard, and often turn to ice, as a result of extreme cold; to make something do this

Listen to definition

In simple words: to become very cold and turn into ice

Examples

• Please freeze the leftovers to keep them fresh.
• If you see a bear, it is best to freeze and not make any sudden movements.
• The water will freeze if it's below zero degrees Celsius.
• I had to freeze my bank account after losing my credit card.
• During the storm, the pipes might freeze and burst.
• Let's freeze this moment in time with a photograph.
• The movie's action scenes will make you want to freeze in suspense.
• When she heard the loud noise, she seemed to freeze in fear.

Usage notes

Use 'freeze' when talking about temperature or when someone suddenly stops moving. Avoid using it in overly formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

freeze + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'freeze' in 'freezer' - imagine putting water in a freezer.

Collocations

• solid
• over
• up
• into
• freeze to death
• solid
• over
• up
• into
• freeze to death
• solid
• over
• up
• into
• freeze to death
• well
• well
• suddenly
• for a moment
• for a second
• seem to
• in
• with
• into
• freeze to the spot
• freeze on the spot
• effectively
• at

Synonyms

• peg

Antonyms

• melt
• warm
• thaw

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'freeze out' (to exclude someone)
• Using 'freezing' as a noun instead of an adjective
• Mixing up with 'chill' (more mild temperature)