Frostnips

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A condition resulting in localized freezing of the skin that leads to numbness and discoloration
2. A mild form of frostbite affecting exposed skin areas
3. Injury caused by cold that causes pain, but is typically reversible if treated quickly

Etymology: "Frostnips" is the plural of "frostnip," a noun for mild cold injury to the skin, the kind that stings and numbs but usually recovers if warmed promptly. The word is a plain compound of "frost" and "nip." "Nip" in this sense is an old English word for a sharp pinch or bite, the same sense found in the phrase "a nip in the air," which describes cold weather that bites at the skin. The pairing works because both halves describe the same sensation. "Frost" names the cold itself, while "nip" names the quick, pinching hurt it causes. Joined together, the compound describes a light, temporary frost-bite, distinguishing it from the far more serious frostbite, where the tissue itself is damaged.

Synonyms: frostbite, skin damage