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

Fresh flowers burst explosively out of each cake, swinging jauntily over stacks of vanilla sponges and creamy frostings. —The Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 Mar. 2026

Or ube cake with coconut frosting. —Los Angeles Times, 19 Mar. 2026

Add 2 tablespoons of the cream, raise the mixer speed to medium, and beat until the frosting is pale and easily spreadable and has increased quite a bit in volume. —Olivia Wakim, AJC.com, 17 Mar. 2026

Our editors liked the creamy texture and balanced flavor of this frosting, that didn't leave any unappetizing aftertastes or grit. —Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2026

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