icy

1 of 2

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

iciness

2 of 2

noun

ic·​i·​ness ˈīsēnəs 

-sin-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being icy

her voice carried … a quality of iciness

—Louis Bromfield

Synonyms of icy

Adjective

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

Examples of icy in a Sentence

Adjective

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

Adjective

Add the lid and shake until the surface of the cup is icy. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 June 2026

Their journey spans icy fjords, Byzantine intrigue, and the fabled Silk Road, blending Viking grit with ancient Chinese wisdom, unexpected alliances, and a touch of magic. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 25 June 2026

Through icy landscapes, courage and friendship are tested – and the children discover that the true magic of Christmas comes from togetherness. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 22 June 2026

For a similar shade to Bieber's icy, fully opaque white, try OPI's Nail Lacquer in Alpine Snow or Londontown's Enhanced Colour polish in Duchess. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 22 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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