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frost up

B1 neutral inseparable both
In simple words

When frost forms on a window, windscreen, or other surface on a cold day.

Literal meaning: To frost over the top — largely transparent.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

For a surface to become covered with a thin layer of frost or ice during cold weather.

"The car windscreen had frosted up overnight and I had to scrape it before driving."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral

To deliberately coat a glass surface with a frosted or opaque finish.

"They frosted up the bathroom window to give more privacy without blocking the light."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Used commonly in British English to describe windows, windscreens, and outdoor surfaces. 'The windscreen has frosted up' is a typical use. Also used transitively: 'The cold frosted up the windows'.

Commonly used with

windscreen window pipes roads glass surface

Forms

Base
frost up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
frosts up
he/she/it
Past simple
frosted up
yesterday
Past participle
frosted up
have + pp
-ing form
frosting up
continuous

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Synonyms

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