freezing rain

noun

: rain that freezes upon contact with a surface (such as the ground)

But to Healy's surprise, a glaze of freezing rain began to appear on the windshield.

—Jon Vara

This also explains why the stuff we call freezing rain … falls as a liquid but then turns to a sheet of ice when it strikes the pavement or a tree branch.

—Frederick K. Lutgens et al.

compare hail entry 1, sleet entry 1, snow entry 1

Examples of freezing rain in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Eastern China recorded more extensive areas of severe freezing rain in 2024 and 2025 compared with historical averages in what the China National Climate Center says is the result of climate change. —Jennifer Jett, NBC news, 7 June 2026

Ice, snow, sleet, hail, and freezing rain, combined with mud and salt, can make a real mess of your driveway, sidewalk, patio, deck, and more during the long winter months. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Apr. 2026

When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. —Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 19 Apr. 2026

When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. —Southern California Weather Report, Daily News, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1672, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for freezing rain

• aeroplane
• appertain
• ascertain
• capitaine
• cassegrain
• cellophane
• chatelaine
• counterpane
• entertain
• halothane
• hurricane
• hyperplane

Kids Definition

freezing rain

noun

: rain that freezes upon contact with a surface (as the ground)