freeze

word

/ˈfɹiz/
freez
/fɹˈiːz/
freez

Definition

To become very cold and turn into ice, or to make something do this. It can also mean to stop moving suddenly, or for a computer screen or system to stop working for a short time.

Usage & Nuances

Common patterns: 'freeze food', 'freeze to death', 'my screen froze', and 'freeze with fear'. 'Freezing' is also a common adjective meaning very cold: 'It’s freezing outside.' Don't confuse it with 'fridge' or only with ice—people, machines, and even plans can 'freeze'.

Example Sentences

Water will freeze at 0°C.

basic

Please freeze the meat for later.

basic

I froze when I heard the loud noise.

basic

My laptop always freezes when I open too many tabs.

natural

She just froze and didn't know what to say.

natural

Can we freeze the budget until next month?

natural