WordGarden.iothaw
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /θˈɔː/
US
- /ˈθɔ/
Meanings
Verb
to become unfrozen or make something unfrozen because of warmth
to warm frozen food so it can be cooked or eaten
to become friendlier or less distant after coldness, reserve, or tension
Noun
a period of warmer weather when snow and ice begin to melt
an easing of coldness or hostility in relations between people or groups
Beyond the definition
Imagine winter starting to let go. A thaw is when rising temperatures melt ice and snow. But "thaw" is not only about weather. It can also describe people becoming less cold or distant. A grudge might thaw after an honest talk, or a tense relationship might slowly grow warmer. Think of it as something frozen starting to soften, whether that is ice, feelings, or relations between countries.
To thaw means to melt or become unfrozen, usually referring to ice or snow as temperatures rise. "After days of sub-zero temperatures, the snow finally began to thaw." This is its most literal meaning, tied directly to changes in weather and temperature.
However, "thaw" also has a strong metaphorical use. It can describe a softening or warming of attitudes, feelings, or relationships. A thaw in relations between countries suggests less hostility. A person who has been cold and distant might experience a thaw, becoming more open and friendly.
The image is clear: something frozen gives way to warmth and movement. It often suggests a gradual process, not an instant change. You could say "a thaw set in after years of silence" between estranged family members, or that "the political climate began to thaw" after a new election.
Historically, the word comes from Old English thāwian, meaning "to melt." It evokes images of spring arriving and life returning after winter's dormancy. So whether it's ice turning to water, or hearts opening up, "thaw" speaks to a welcome transition towards warmth, openness, and renewal.
Examples
- 1
Snow melting
By late morning, the snow had started to thaw.
- 2
Food preparation
Leave the fish in the fridge overnight to thaw before you cook it.
- 3
Body warming
I held my hands by the heater until they finally thawed out.
- Phrasethaw out
become warm again after being very cold
- 4
Weather event
After weeks of freezing weather, the sudden thaw flooded several streets.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Diplomacy
The two countries are hoping for a thaw in relations after months of tension.
- Phrasea thaw in relations
a relationship becoming friendlier again
- 6
Social ease
She was quiet at first, but she soon thawed around her new colleagues.
- Patternthaw around + person
become more relaxed and friendly with them
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- thawnounverb
Forms
- thawedpast tenseverbnoun
- thawing-ing formverbnoun
- thawspluralnounverb