What Is an Ice Pack? Definition & Proper Usage

Meaning 1：ice pack (Ice pack)

Ice pack 🔊

/ˈaɪs pæk/

A bag filled with ice or a cooling gel, used to make injuries feel better.

ice pack 🔊

➕

/ˈaɪs pæk/

A flexible bag filled with ice, gel, or coolant, applied to the body to reduce swelling, pain, or inflammation from injuries.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Combines 'ice' (frozen water) and 'pack' (a bundle), forming a term for a cold compress.

💡 Mnemonic

Picture a pack of frozen peas on a sore ankle. Ice + pack = cold relief.

📖 Example

After spraining his ankle during the basketball game, Alex put an ice pack on it to reduce the swelling. 🔊 After spraining his ankle during the basketball game, Alex put an ice pack on it to reduce the swelling.

🔗 Collocations

apply an ice pack – to place an ice pack on an injury to reduce swelling

reusable ice pack – an ice pack that can be frozen and used multiple times

instant ice pack – a single-use pack that becomes cold when activated

🔄 Synonyms

cold compress (n.) – a pad of cloth soaked in cold water or ice, applied to the body

ice bag (n.) – a bag filled with ice, similar to an ice pack

🚫 Antonyms

heat pack (n.) – a pack that produces heat, used for warmth or muscle relaxation

hot compress (n.) – a warm cloth or pad applied to the body

📖 Cultural Story

Ice packs date back to ancient Egypt with snow packs. Modern gel versions developed in the mid-20th century for medical and athletic use.