hoarfrost
Say it: HOR-frost /ˈhɔːfrɒst/ · noun
What “hoarfrost” means
White frost that forms delicate feathery crystals.
More precisely: A feathery white frost formed on cold, clear nights.
Example: “Hoarfrost turned every blade of grass in the park into silver.”
When to use it
Use it when describing feathery frost on plants or surfaces after a cold, clear night, in nature writing.
Memory trick
Old English “hār” means grey-haired: imagine grass wearing a coat of white hair.
Similar words
rime, white frost, frost
Where it comes from
Old English hār 'grey-haired' and frost.
Quick check
After a clear freezing night, delicate white feather-like ice crystals cover the garden fence. What are they?
snow or hoarfrost?
Show the answer
hoarfrost
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