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

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

The seven-year time limit is getting pushback from housing industry groups, which argue the requirement would have a chilling effect on construction.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

"This has had a chilling effect on my ability to conduct public interest journalism with source relationships damaged and, in some cases, destroyed."

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2026

While the repression had an initial chilling effect on the demonstrations, it also gave Iranians another reason to oppose their theocratic rulers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

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

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman