chilly

adjective

ˈchi-lē How to pronounce chilly (audio)
chillier; chilliest
Synonyms of chillynext
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 How to pronounce chilly (audio)
adverb
chilliness
ˈchi-lē-nəs How to pronounce chilly (audio)
noun

Synonyms of chilly

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The thick knit has rib detailing throughout the sweater, and the material is breathable to work for chilly days and nights. — Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026 As the attractive secretary, she is forced to fend off not only Hart’s advances (with the cheery but firm dexterity of a woman with no alternative and many years of practice) but also the chilly scorn of her female colleagues. — Culture Critic, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026 That first chilly day of the year means mice, stink bugs, Asian lady beetles and more become residents of your home. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026 Chocolate brown and white stripes paired with a dainty baby pink shade create a warm and inviting look, and this sweater will surely become a go-to addition to my personal item to throw on during chilly flights. — Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for chilly

Word History

First Known Use

1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of chilly was in 1567

Rhymes for chilly

See All Rhymes for chilly

Browse Nearby Words

chillumchee
chilly
chill zone
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Cite this Entry

“Chilly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chilly. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

chilly

adjective
ˈchil-ē How to pronounce chilly (audio)
chillier; chilliest
1
: noticeably cold
2
: unpleasantly affected by cold
3
: not friendly
a chilly response
chilliness noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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