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

While Io itself is far too hostile to support life, microwave instruments can also probe beneath icy surfaces. — Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 24 July 2026

Clarence Birdseye, a naturalist, is inspired by seeing Inuits use icy air to freeze fish. — New York Times, 24 July 2026

Page, an imposing figure in his double-breasted suit, can add a seductive lilt to his booming bass or an icy edge that provides a peek into his embittered soul. — Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 22 July 2026

During this icy inspection, Hurston decided to inflict as much discomfort as possible on her oppressors by remaining in the office as a form of passive resistance. — Literary Hub, 22 July 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