SPINE-CHILLING Synonyms: 66 Similar and Opposite Words

spine-chilling

adjective

ˈspīn-ˌchi-liŋ

Definition of spine-chilling

as in terrifying

causing fear the soldiers let out a spine-chilling yell just before charging the enemy

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of spine-chilling In the three years since the war started, locals have gotten used to the spine-chilling sound of the sirens and mostly ignore it. — IEEE Spectrum, 18 May 2025 But rather than dilute the scare factor, the humor makes the sense of doom only more pitiless and Orlok’s plans for Ellen more spine-chilling. — David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Dec. 2024 This complex dress featured a mannequin-like attachment on the back, making for the ultimate spine-chilling moment. — Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 25 Jan. 2024 Her phrasing and breath control of the most difficult passages seemed effortless, and her high notes were spine-chilling. — Christian Hertzog, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 July 2023 See All Example Sentences for spine-chilling

Recent Examples of Synonyms for spine-chilling

Adjective

Equally jubilant and terrifying, his size brings both John and Jim Ross to this mythic quality.

— Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 28 Aug. 2026
He is described as a terrifying figure but also one who is learned and devoted to Shiva.

— Charles Preston, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of terrifying

Adjective

The thoughts that accompany these conditions can be alarming and frightening, making many women reluctant to talk about them or seek help.

— Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 28 Aug. 2026
There are frightening stories of swordfish charging boats, and even spearing their transoms and whacking propellers.

— Bob McNally, Outdoor Life, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of frightening

Adjective

Anne Hathaway is a leftist, woke, horrible choice for DAYS OF THUNDER NASCAR audience who are MAGA.

— James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2026
These two rubber bands in our throat are affected by everything from hormones to psychology to a bad day to a horrible night’s sleep to the sniffles or whatever.

— Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of horrible

Adjective

But even without it, there seems to be some truth to the idea that if these teams were terrible businesses, they wouldn’t be sold for billions of dollars.

— Evan Drellich, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026
Not by tightening the siege on Iran directly, but by tightening the siege on those who help this regime, this terrible dictatorship.

— Mustafa Qadri, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of terrible

Browse Nearby Words

spine

spine-chilling

spineless

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“Spine-chilling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spine-chilling. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of spine-chilling

adjective

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

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