icy

adjective

ˈī-sē 

icier; iciest

1

a

: covered with, abounding in, or consisting of ice

b

: intensely cold

2

: characterized by coldness : frigid

an icy stare

also : steely

icy nerves

icily

ˈī-sə-lē 

adverb

iciness

ˈī-sē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of icy

• frigid
• cold
• freezing
• chilly
• chill
• cool

Examples of icy in a Sentence

an icy drink that was especially refreshing on that hot afternoon

she wondered why the salesclerk at the boutique had given her an icy glare

Recent Examples on the Web

Chalamet’s co-star Robert Pattinson also looked like a different person with an icy blonde new look. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 28 Oct. 2026

When Dunne comes to the festival and the two meet in real life, the author is icy—but also seems interested in Sophie, much to Sophie’s surprise. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 26 Oct. 2026

Flores was a disciplinarian whose icy sternness and sharp tongue wore on some players. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2026

Available both in the restaurant and the cafe at All Mart’s entrance, this icy dessert has a floral cardamom flavor and a slight crunch from its dusting of pistachios. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 23 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing icy

• icy cold

Rhymes for icy

• dicey
• pricey
• spicy
• devisee
• theodicy

Kids Definition

icy

adjective

ˈī-sē 

icier; iciest

1

a

: covered with, full of, or consisting of ice

b

: very cold

icy weather

2

: unfriendly sense 1

icily

-sə-lē 

adverb

iciness

-sē-nəs 

noun