frosting

noun

frost·​ing ˈfrȯ-stiŋ 

1

a

: icing

b

: trimming, ornamentation

2

: lusterless finish of metal or glass : mat

also : a white finish produced on glass (as by etching)

3

: the lightening (as by chemicals) of small strands of hair throughout the entire head to produce a two-tone effect compare streaking

Examples of frosting in a Sentence

We put frosting on the cupcakes.

Recent Examples on the Web

For a beautifully smooth frosting, make sure not to over whip. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 23 June 2025

The chocolate frosting adds even more flavor that bursts on each bite. —Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 21 June 2025

On top is a thick, rich, cream cheese frosting that includes strawberry purée, upping the strawberry quotient yet again. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 12 June 2025

But yeah, that's the Hummingbird cake, a banana, pineapple layer cake with lots of cream cheese frosting and pecans. —Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 5 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for frosting

• costing
• defrosting
• exhausting

Kids Definition

frosting

noun

frost·​ing ˈfrȯ-stiŋ 

1

: icing entry 1 sense 1

2

: a dull finish on metal or glass