Fridge

Definition

Fridge is a shortened term for "refrigerator," a household appliance used to keep food and beverages cool or frozen by maintaining a low internal temperature. It plays a key role in preserving perishable items.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /frɪdʒ/
• Respelling: FRIDGE

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /frɪdʒ/
• Respelling: FRIDGE

Etymology

The word "fridge" is a colloquial abbreviation of "refrigerator." The term "refrigerator" itself originates from the Latin "refrigerare," meaning "to make cool," derived from "re-" (again) and "frigus" (cold). "Fridge" became widely used in English in the 20th century as a shorter, informal term.

Derivatives

• Fridgelike (adjective)
• Refrigerator (noun)
• Fridge-freezer (noun)
• Mini-fridge (noun)
• Fridging (verb, informal)

Synonyms

• Refrigerator
• Cooler
• Icebox

Antonyms

• Heater
• Oven
• Stove

Usage

The noun "fridge" is used in everyday contexts to refer to a cooling appliance, as in "She opened the fridge to get some milk." It is also used metaphorically to denote cold or reserved behavior, such as "His attitude was as cold as a fridge."

Related Terms

• Freezer: A compartment or appliance used for freezing items.
• Cooling: The process of reducing temperature.
• Insulation: Material used to prevent the escape of heat or cold.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A household appliance used for cooling food and beverages: Refers to the standard kitchen refrigerator.
  • Example: "The vegetables are stored in the fridge to keep them fresh."
• A compartment within a refrigerator used for cooling or freezing: Describes specific sections, such as the freezer compartment.
  • Example: "Ice cream is kept in the top part of the fridge."
• An informal term for a cold or unwelcoming environment: Used metaphorically to describe a place or atmosphere.
  • Example: "The office felt like a fridge during the winter."