chilling

[chil-ing]

adjective

1. causing or likely to cause a chill.

   the chilling effect of the high unemployment rate.

Word History and Origins

Origin of chilling¹

chill + -ing ²

Example Sentences

I don’t know how he got that look of vacant desperation in his eyes, but it’s chilling.”

From Los Angeles Times

A chilling effect has fallen over Ohio’s public college campuses.

From Salon

He argued that using government authority to limit commentary sets a dangerous precedent, potentially chilling political speech and satire.

From Salon

Then, in a truly chilling remark, he added, “We can do this the easy way or the hard way.”

From Salon

But he told the BBC when the express service reached its final stop "sure enough" he found the crustacean "chilling" on a seat.

From BBC

Related Words

• eerie 
• horrifying 
• shocking 
• thrilling