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Synonyms

freezing

American  
[free-zing] / ˈfri zɪŋ /

adjective

  1. (of temperatures) approaching, at, or below the freezing point.

  2. extremely or uncomfortably cold; chilled.

    We were both freezing and welcomed the hot cocoa.

  3. beginning to freeze or partially frozen; in the process of being or becoming frozen.


freezing British  
/ ˈfriːzɪŋ /

adjective

  1. informal extremely cold

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of freezing

First recorded in 1605–15; freeze + -ing 2

Vocabulary lists containing freezing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Freezing rain from January 23 to January 26 was the primary cause of losses, with commercial buildings facing significant damage from burst pipes.

From Barron's • Feb. 4, 2026

Freezing these assets could have an effect comparable to military attack—at a fraction of the risk.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 2026

Freezing will kill parasites that may be present.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2025

Freezing the dough solidifies the butter and ensures that it melts evenly during baking, leading to biscuits that rise higher and more evenly, with a texture that’s light yet sturdy.

From Salon • Mar. 20, 2025

“He just wants to give us some hands-on experience,” said Hermione, immobilizing two pixies at once with a clever Freezing Charm and stuffing them back into their cage.

From "Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets" by J. K. Rowling