The word "refrigerate" is spelled with two r's and two e's, which can cause confusion for those trying to spell it correctly. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /rɪˈfrɪdʒəreɪt/, which can help break down the spelling. The "r" sound is at the beginning of the word, followed by the short "i" sound in "ri". The word then moves into the "f" sound and the long "i" sound in "gate". Finally, the word ends with the "t" sound. Remembering the IPA transcription can aid in proper spelling of "refrigerate".
The term "refrigerate" refers to the action of cooling or preserving an item or substance by subjecting it to low temperatures, typically below room temperature. It involves the use of a mechanical or electrical device called a refrigerator, which is designed to lower the temperature of its contents.
In the context of food preservation, refrigeration is a commonly employed method to slow down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause spoilage or illness. By cooling food items to temperatures between 32°F (0°C) and 41°F (5°C), the process of microbes' reproduction is significantly reduced, prolonging the shelf life of perishable goods. This technique is widely used in homes, commercial establishments, and industrial settings to store fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meats, and other foodstuffs safely.
Apart from food preservation, refrigeration is also utilized in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals and chemicals, where temperature control is crucial for the stability and integrity of certain products. Medical supplies, vaccines, and sensitive drugs often require refrigeration to maintain their potency and effectiveness.
Furthermore, the term can also refer to the act of cooling beverages or liquids by placing them in a refrigerator or an ice bath. This process is commonly employed in households, bars, and restaurants to serve chilled drinks, providing a refreshing sensation.
Overall, the purpose of refrigeration is to maintain cool temperatures to slow down microbial growth, enhance the shelf life of perishable items, and ensure the safety and quality of products.
To make cold or colder; to lessen the heat of; to refresh.
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 "refrigerate" comes from the Latin word "refrigeratus", which is the past participle of the verb "refrigerare". "Refrigeratus" is derived from the combination of the prefix "re-" (meaning "back" or "again") and the verb "frigerare" (meaning "to cool" or "to make cold"). From Latin, it entered Middle English as "refrigeraten", and eventually evolved into the modern English word "refrigerate".