water ice

American  

noun

1. ice formed by direct freezing of fresh or salt water, and not by compacting of snow.

2. a frozen dessert, similar to sherbet, made of water, sweetener, and fruit syrup or other flavorings.

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water ice British  

noun

1. an ice cream made from a frozen sugar syrup flavoured with fruit juice or purée; sorbet

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Usage

What does water ice mean? Water ice is a frozen dessert, very similar to Italian ice, made in Philadelphia. How is water ice pronounced?[ waw-ter ahys ]

Etymology

Origin of water ice

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

The most likely explanation is the presence of thick but uneven water ice clouds, similar to cirrus clouds high in Earth's atmosphere -- an unexpected complication.

From Science Daily • Apr. 22, 2026

The stated goal of Artemis is to develop a permanent presence near the lunar south pole, which is believed to be abundant in resources such as water ice in shadowed craters.

From Slate • Mar. 13, 2026

Accessible water ice would allow astronauts to produce drinking water, breathable oxygen, fuel, and other essentials needed to survive and work on Mars for long periods.

From Science Daily • Dec. 27, 2025

The university said the pits may be connected to underground cave networks that could provide natural shelter from harmful radiation and micrometeorite impacts, as well as harbour water ice.

From BBC • Oct. 8, 2025

It did not occur to Palmer that he had not eaten all day until a crewcut little kid with a cup of grape water ice stood beside him.

From "Wringer" by Jerry Spinelli