refrigeration
UK: rɪˌfrɪdʒəˈreɪʃən | US: rɪˌfrɪdʒəˈreɪʃən
n. the process of cooling or preserving something (especially food) at low temperatures
n. the technology or system used to maintain artificially low temperatures
refrigeration = re<again> + frig<cold> + eration<noun suffix>
- re: Prefix meaning "again" or "back" (from Latin re-).
- frig: Root meaning "cold" (from Latin frigus, meaning "cold").
- eration: Noun-forming suffix indicating a process or state (from Latin -atio).
Etymology Origin:
The word "refrigeration" traces back to Latin refrigeratio, derived from refrigerare ("to cool again"), combining re- (indicating repetition) and frigus ("cold"). The term evolved in Middle English via Old French, retaining its core meaning of cooling or preserving through controlled temperature reduction. The modern usage reflects technological advancements in cooling systems, but the root logic—repeated or sustained coldness—remains central.
Modern refrigeration has revolutionized food preservation.
The laboratory uses advanced refrigeration to store sensitive chemicals.
Without proper refrigeration, milk spoils quickly.
The invention of mechanical refrigeration transformed global trade.
Energy-efficient refrigeration systems are critical for sustainability.