thaw
word
Definition
To go from being frozen to no longer being frozen, as when ice turns to water. Also, to become less tense or hostile, as in relationships or situations.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly used for ice, snow, or frozen food. Can also mean to make a situation or relationship friendlier ('relations begin to thaw'). In cooking, 'thaw' means bringing frozen food to room temperature. Don't confuse with 'melt'—'thaw' focuses on frozen state changing, 'melt' on solid turning into liquid.
Example Sentences
The snow will thaw in spring.
basic
Please thaw the chicken before cooking it.
basic
The river started to thaw after the cold winter.
basic
After their argument, it took a while for things to thaw between them.
natural
Let's leave the meat on the counter and let it thaw for an hour.
natural
Diplomatic relations began to thaw after years of tension.
natural