frozen

word · lemma: freeze

/ˈfɹoʊzən/
FROH-zuhn
/fɹˈəʊzən/
FROH-zuhn

Definition

Kept at a very low temperature so it becomes hard, icy, or preserved. It can also describe a person or body part that cannot move well because of extreme cold, fear, or shock.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for food: 'frozen vegetables', 'frozen pizza'. Different from 'freezing', which usually describes very cold temperature ('It's freezing'). 'Frozen' also appears in expressions like 'frozen with fear' and in tech/office contexts when a screen or system stops responding.

Example Sentences

The lake is frozen in winter.

basic

We bought frozen peas at the store.

basic

My hands were frozen after the walk.

basic

I just stood there, frozen with fear.

natural

Dinner's easy tonight—we're having frozen pizza.

natural

My laptop is frozen again, so I can't send the file.

natural