icicle
UK: ˈaɪ.sɪ.kəl | US: ˈaɪ.sɪ.kəl
n. a hanging, tapering piece of ice formed by the freezing of dripping water
The word "icicle" originates from Middle English isikel, combining "ice" (from Old English īs) with the diminutive suffix "-icle" (akin to Old English gicel, meaning "icicle" or "piece of ice"). The suffix implies a small or slender form, reflecting the delicate, tapered shape of an icicle. Over time, the term evolved to its modern spelling while preserving the vivid imagery of frozen drips forming slender ice structures.
The roof was lined with sparkling icicles after the winter storm.
She carefully avoided walking under the sharp icicles hanging from the gutter.
Sunlight glinted off the icicles, turning them into natural crystal chandeliers.
A sudden thaw caused the icicles to crash onto the pavement below.
Children love to break off small icicles and suck on them like popsicles.