Identify the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
Freezing

The correct answer is tropical.

1. Meaning of the Given Word:
Freezing refers to weather or temperatures that are extremely cold (at or below the freezing point of water).

2. Analysis of the Options:
• tropical: Pertaining to or characteristic of the tropics, a geographical zone known for persistent heat and warm climates. Thus, it serves as the most appropriate antonym denoting extreme warmth/heat as opposed to extreme cold.
• summery: Suitable for or typical of summer, often implying pleasant warmth rather than a direct contrast to freezing conditions.
• brisk: Cool, crisp, and invigorating (weather), which actually shares cold qualities with freezing.
• gnawing: Causing persistent discomfort, pain, or anxiety, which is contextually unrelated to temperature.

Therefore, tropical is the most suitable antonym for the word freezing.