verb
defrost
dee-FROST
verb
1
To remove ice or frost from something, such as a freezer or windshield.
"Remember to defrost the freezer before it gets too icy."
2
To thaw frozen food or another frozen substance.
"She defrosted the chicken overnight in the fridge."
How to Use Defrost
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo thaw something out or clear ice away.
UK vs US
In the UK, "defrost" is also common for thawing food; American English sometimes prefers "thaw" for food and reserves "defrost" for appliances.
Common pairings
defrost the freezer
defrost meat
defrost the windshield
Word Forms
defrosted past tense, defrosts plural, defrosts singular
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Remember to _____ the freezer before it gets too icy.
Etymology
From de- + frost.