# frostbite

/ˈfɹɔstˌbaɪt/ (US) · /fɹˈɒstbaɪt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/frostbite
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a medical condition where skin and tissue freeze because of extreme cold. It usually happens when you stay outside in very low temperatures for too long.

For teachers: a medical condition caused by the freezing of skin and underlying tissues, typically resulting from prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures.

## Examples

- He suffered from frostbite after walking through the snow without gloves.
- The hikers were warned that frostbite could occur within minutes if they did not find shelter from the wind.
- While mild frostbite may only affect the surface of the skin, severe cases can lead to permanent nerve damage and the eventual loss of fingers or toes.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.