frostbite

[ frawst-bahyt, frost- ]

noun

1. injury to any part of the body after excessive exposure to extreme cold, sometimes progressing from initial redness and tingling to gangrene.

verb (used with object)

, frost·bit, frost·bit·ten, frost·bit·ing.

1. to injure by frost or extreme cold.

frostbite

/ ˈfrɒstˌbaɪt /

noun

1. destruction of tissues, esp those of the fingers, ears, toes, and nose, by freezing, characterized by tingling, blister formation, and gangrene
2. a type of small sailing dinghy

frostbite

/ frôst′bīt′ /

1. Damage to a part of the body as a result of exposure to freezing temperatures. It is caused by a loss of blood supply and the formation of ice crystals in the affected body part.

Word History and Origins

Origin of frostbite¹

First recorded in 1605–15; frost + bite

Example Sentences

He was described by the park as having severe frostbite and hypothermia.

From Seattle Times

At least three other climbers have been rescued in late-May after sustaining injuries on the mountain, including two who had been receiving treatment for frostbite from National Park Service personnel and were rescued Tuesday.

From Seattle Times

There, National Park Service mountaineering patrol rangers had been treating two climbers from another expedition for frostbite.

From Seattle Times

“Strong winds could cause tree damage. Cold wind chill readings as low as 20 degrees below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.”

From Los Angeles Times

Injuries, including frostbite from handling frozen shrimp and skin and respiratory irritation from exposure to chemicals or contaminated water, were common.

From Salon

Related Words

• chill
• snow