chilling effect

American  

noun

1. a discouraging or deterring effect, especially one resulting from a restrictive law or regulation.

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Etymology

Origin of chilling effect

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Fifa offical Heimo Schirgi said: "The NJ Transit current pricing model will have a chilling effect."

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

Gomez added that while attempts to pull licenses border on folly, Carr’s threats and attacks on the media can create a chilling effect and erode the public’s confidence in the press.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

She said that exposing sex-crime victims “can also have a chilling effect on other people being willing to come forward.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 15, 2026

Critics argue that the campaign amounts to retribution and will have a chilling effect on free speech.

From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026

But never had a pariah had such a chilling effect on bringers of death.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman