freezing rain

noun

1. rain that falls as a liquid but freezes into glaze upon contact with the ground.

Word History and Origins

Origin of freezing rain¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

The combination promises to bring perhaps a little snow along with the dreaded mix of sleet and freezing rain.

From Washington Post

Some of our colder areas could see some spotty freezing rain early in the morning, so use extra caution.

From Washington Post

Most spots might stay dry, but it only takes a little freezing rain to cause problems.

From Washington Post

We can’t rule out a little patchy, light freezing rain or freezing drizzle in the predawn hours.

From Washington Post

With temperatures dropping to lows in the mid-20s to near 30, a light accumulation of snow, or a glaze of freezing rain, could make things slick by morning.

From Washington Post

Many people do not understand the difference between sleet and freezing rain.

From The Daily Beast

If a pure freezing rain storm were to hit the northern tier of this country, it would have the same effect as it does in Atlanta.

From The Daily Beast

Freezing rain, on the other hand, is a whole different ballgame.

From The Daily Beast

Freezing rain fills potholes and snow drifts in through windows empty of glass.

From The Daily Beast

Every muscle and sinew in me was wracked, while I stood in a driving wind and freezing rain.

From Project Gutenberg

His garments were frozen stiff, and altogether he resembled a bronze statue of Franklin after a freezing rain storm.

From Project Gutenberg

By this time, it was dark, with a freezing rain covering everything with ice.

From Project Gutenberg

I was lashed by a freezing rain, my numb hands were cut and bleeding, and there were ten weary miles still ahead.

From Project Gutenberg

If a substantial layer of ice is expected to accumulate from the freezing rain, an ice storm is forecast.

From Project Gutenberg