The word "frozen" is spelled with a "z" rather than an "s", despite the pronunciation of the initial consonant sound being similar to an "s" sound. This can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription of the word: /ˈfroʊzn/. The symbol "z" in IPA represents the voiced consonant sound, whereas the symbol "s" represents the unvoiced consonant sound. Since the final consonant in "frozen" is voiced, the correct spelling uses a "z".
Frozen is an adjective that describes the state of something being turned into a solid or semi-solid form due to extreme cold temperatures. It refers to the transformation of a substance from a liquid or malleable state into a hard and rigid state. Freezing is a process that occurs when the temperature of a substance drops below its freezing point, causing its particles to slow down and bond with each other, resulting in a solidified state.
In the context of food, frozen refers to the act of preserving perishable items by subjecting them to very low temperatures, typically below 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). This method slows down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, extending the shelf life of food items. Frozen food, often packaged in containers or bags, can be stored for relatively long periods without significant loss of quality or spoilage.
Furthermore, the term frozen is also used metaphorically to describe a state of immobility or lack of change. It may depict a situation, emotion, or relationship that has become stagnant, unchanging, or devoid of progress. This figurative usage highlights a state of stiffness, rigidity, or lack of flexibility and adaptability. In such contexts, it implies a need for change, movement, or revitalization.
Overall, frozen primarily signifies the solidification or solid state resulting from extreme cold temperatures, but it can also convey a metaphorical sense of immobility or lack of progress.
• Hardened into ice; congealed by cold.
• Congealed by cold; frosty; chill.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "frozen" originated from the Old English word "frōzen" which is the past participle of the verb "frēosan". This Old English term can be traced to the Proto-Germanic word "*freusaną" which means "to freeze" or "to solidify". The Proto-Germanic term, in turn, evolved from the Proto-Indo-European root "*preus-" which signifies "to frost" or "to freeze". Over time, the word "frozen" has retained its meaning and pronunciation, making it an integral part of the English language.