Ice-locked

Describing a state or condition of being firmly encased or immobilized by ice. This term frequently refers to bodies of water, vessels, or geographical features like land, which are completely frozen over, rendering them impassable or inaccessible due to the presence and grip of ice. The ice acts as a physical barrier, preventing movement, navigation, or any form of interaction with the object or area it encompasses. The degree of 'ice-locked' can range from partially frozen to completely and impenetrably frozen, dictating the severity of the restriction and the challenges faced. Often associated with winter conditions in polar regions, but can also occur in temperate regions during periods of extreme cold, leading to logistical and environmental challenges. It implies a lack of mobility and access.

Ice-locked meaning with examples

• The Arctic expedition faced an imminent threat as their research vessel became ice-locked in the rapidly freezing Beaufort Sea. Unable to maneuver, the crew anxiously monitored weather reports, fearing being trapped indefinitely. With dwindling supplies and worsening conditions, they initiated emergency protocols, knowing rescue attempts would be delayed until the ice thawed significantly, posing a severe test of their survival skills and resilience.
• The village, nestled on the edge of the lake, was practically ice-locked during the severe winter. Roads disappeared under deep snow, and the frozen lake made any attempt to escape perilous. Supply trucks were unable to deliver necessary goods. Residents grew increasingly isolated as the ice hardened its grip around them, bringing their social and commercial activity to a standstill, becoming reliant on each other during the hardship.
• The river delta became ice-locked following an unusually cold snap, halting the movement of barges transporting essential goods to upstream communities. The abrupt pause in supply chains brought economic consequences, forcing prices up and creating shortages in a region already struggling economically. The closure was felt throughout the whole supply chain due to the dependence on river transport and the disruption in transportation caused by this ice blockage.
• The ambitious plans to develop an Antarctic research base were thwarted when the construction site became ice-locked during an extended polar vortex. The heavy equipment, already on the continent, was immobilized, and further shipments were postponed. The harshness of nature forced revisions to the timeline and plans, and underscored the unpredictable environment in Antarctica's most demanding conditions. The frozen landscape presented significant challenges.