frigidity
UK: /frɪˈdʒɪd.ə.ti/ | US: /frɪˈdʒɪd.ə.ti/
n. 1. The state of being extremely cold in temperature.
n. 2. Lack of warmth or emotional responsiveness; coldness in demeanor.
n. 3. (Medical) Sexual unresponsiveness, especially in women.
frigidity = frigid<cold> + ity<noun suffix>
- frigid: From Latin frigidus (cold), derived from frigus (frost, coldness).
- ity: A noun-forming suffix from Latin -itas, indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin frigus, meaning "cold" or "frost." Over time, frigidus evolved into English "frigid," retaining its literal and metaphorical meanings of coldness. The suffix -ity was added to form an abstract noun, emphasizing the state of being cold—whether physically, emotionally, or physiologically. The progression reflects how Latin roots were adapted into English to describe both natural and human traits.
The frigidity of the Arctic winter made survival difficult.
Her frigidity toward her colleagues created a tense work environment.
Doctors studied the causes of sexual frigidity in the 19th century.
The frigidity of the lake water shocked the swimmers.
His frigidity masked a deep-seated fear of intimacy.