chilly

adjective

ˈchi-lē 

chillier; chilliest

1

: noticeably cold : chilling

a chilly day

2

: unpleasantly affected by cold

chilly spectators

3

: lacking warmth of feeling : unfriendly

a chilly reception

4

: tending to arouse fear or apprehension

chilly suspicions

chillily

ˈchi-lə-lē 

adverb

chilliness

ˈchi-lē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• bitter
• bleak
• chill
• chilling
• nipping
• nippy
• raw
• sharp

Examples of chilly in a Sentence

It's a little chilly outside.

You must be chilly without a coat on.

They gave him a chilly reception.

Recent Examples on the Web

Early Thursday morning, Milwaukee is expected to see a chilly low of 38 degrees. —Claire Reid, Journal Sentinel, 23 Oct. 2024

Styling-wise, pair the latter with a retro sneaker and cashmere sweater—and on especially chilly days, layer in a cute beanie and fluffy scarf. —Laura Jackson, Vogue, 22 Oct. 2024

This sporty fleece Adidas option, on sale for $20 off, is great for layering on chilly autumn days. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2024

Amber colored, its caramel and herbal flavor and aroma will be perfect on chilly autumn days. —Em Sauter, Forbes, 18 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

chilly

adjective

ˈchil-ē 

chillier; chilliest

1

: noticeably cold

2

: unpleasantly affected by cold

3

: not friendly

a chilly response

chilliness noun