antifreeze
|an-ti-freeze|
/ˌæn.tiˈfriːz/
prevents freezing
Etymology
'antifreeze' is a compound formed from the prefix 'anti-' (from Greek, meaning 'against') plus the verb 'freeze' (from Old English 'frēosan', meaning 'to freeze').
The Old English verb 'frēosan' developed into Middle English forms and then modern English 'freeze'; the compound 'antifreeze' arose in modern English (notably in the late 19th to early 20th century) as a technical term combining 'anti-' + 'freeze'.
Initially coined to denote something acting 'against freezing' (literally preventing freeze); the meaning has remained largely stable, now commonly referring to specific chemical formulations used as coolants.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a chemical added to a liquid to lower its freezing point, preventing the liquid from solidifying at low temperatures.
Add antifreeze to the radiator before winter.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a commercial coolant solution (commonly based on ethylene glycol or propylene glycol) used in vehicle engines and heating systems to prevent freezing and, in some formulas, to raise the boiling point; often toxic if ingested.
The car leaked antifreeze on the driveway.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/01 09:12