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chilly
/ˈtʃɪli/
slightly cold
It's a bit chilly outside today.
The weather is slightly cold.
informal
slightly cold in temperature
The room felt chilly after the air conditioning was turned on.
The room became slightly cold when the air conditioning was activated.
She wore a jacket because it was chilly outside.
She put on a jacket because the weather was slightly cold.
Often used to describe a mild coldness that is not extreme.
Collocations
chilly weatherslightly cold weatherchilly breezea slightly cold windchilly receptiona cold or unfriendly welcome
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
'Chilly' is often used to describe mild coldness, especially in everyday conversation.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
Use 'chilly' for mild coldness, not extreme cold.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'chilly', possibly from Old English 'ċeald' (cold) or Old Norse 'kaldr'.
Usage Notes
Can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is emotionally distant or unfriendly.
Word Breakdown
chill
cold
root-y
suffix indicating a state or quality
suffixEnglish Dictionary