The word "unfrozen" is spelled with the prefix "un-" meaning "not" and the word "frozen." It is pronounced /ʌnˈfroʊzən/ with the stress on the second syllable "-fro." The first syllable "-un" is pronounced like the short "u" sound in "up" and the "n" is pronounced like "n." The second syllable "-fro" is pronounced like "fro" in "frost" and the "z" is pronounced like "z" in "zipper." The final syllable "-zen" is pronounced like "zen" in "citizen."
Unfrozen, an adjective, refers to a state in which something that was previously frozen or solid becomes liquid or defrosted. It signifies the reversal of a freezing process, resulting in the transformation of a solid substance into a liquid state.
The term is commonly used to describe the change of physical state of substances such as water, food, or other materials that have been exposed to freezing temperatures. When an item is unfrozen, it transitions from a rigid, ice-like state to a more fluid and movable state. For example, food that has been stored in a freezer will become unfrozen when removed from freezing temperatures, thereby allowing it to return to its original form or be used in culinary preparations.
Beyond the literal sense, "unfrozen" can also be used metaphorically to describe the release or liberation of someone or something from a state of stagnation, restriction, or immobility. In this context, being unfrozen implies the restoration of movement, freedom, or progress. It can refer to thawing out emotionally, intellectually, or creatively, enabling growth or transformation by breaking free from constraints or inhibitions.
In summary, "unfrozen" denotes the transition from a frozen or solid state to a liquid or defrosted state, both literally and figuratively, signifying the return to movement, fluidity, and freedom.
Not congealed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "unfrozen" is derived from the prefix "un-" and the verb "freeze".
The prefix "un-" is of Germanic origin and is used to indicate negation or reversal. It frequently appears before verbs to create a new word that means "to reverse the action of the verb". In the case of "unfrozen", it means to reverse the action of freezing.
The verb "freeze" dates back to Middle English and is derived from Old English "freosan". It refers to the process of transforming a substance from a liquid state to a solid state due to extreme coldness.
By combining the prefix "un-" with the verb "freeze", the word "unfrozen" is created, signifying the reversal of the action of freezing and represents something that was once frozen but has returned to its original state of being unfrozen.