frosting

1 of 2

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 entry 1

frosting

2 of 2

present participle of frost entry 2

Examples of frosting in a Sentence

Noun

We put frosting on the cupcakes.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Top with your favorite frosting—we’re partial to cream cheese or buttercream icing. — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Aug. 2026

As for their frosting, the main ingredient is lactose-free milk, along with a few secret ingredients. — Maddie Rhodes, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2026

The colorful display doesn’t stop on the inside—homemade frosting is layered with a rainbow of sprinkles. — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 10 Aug. 2026

No-Fail Chocolate Frosting This smooth, creamy, chocolate frosting is easy to make, with none of the potential pitfalls of fussy European buttercreams. — Carolynn Carreño, Los Angeles Times, 31 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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