verb
defrost
dee-FROST
Defrost (verb) means to remove ice or frost from something, such as a freezer or windshield. Example: “Remember to defrost the freezer before it gets too icy.”
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."
"I have just defrosted the fridge."
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
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like defrost.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- defrosts
- Third person singular
- defrosts
- Past tense
- defrosted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Remember to _____ the freezer before it gets too icy.
Etymology
From de- + frost.
Synonyms
View more →
deice
de-ice
Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “defrost” mean?
The word “defrost” means to remove ice or frost from something, such as a freezer or windshield. In plain terms, to thaw something out or clear ice away.
How do you pronounce “defrost”?
“Defrost” is pronounced dee-FROST (/diːˈfɹɔst/ in IPA).
How do you use “defrost” in a sentence?
Here is “defrost” used in a sentence: “Remember to defrost the freezer before it gets too icy.”
What part of speech is “defrost”?
“Defrost” is a verb.
How many meanings does “defrost” have?
“Defrost” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to remove ice or frost from something, such as a freezer or windshield.
