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bone-chilling

adjective

ˈbōn-ˌchi-liŋ How to pronounce bone-chilling (audio)
Definition of bone-chillingnext
as in frigid
having a low or subnormal temperature we stood in line for hours in the bone-chilling weather

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 bone-chilling But her vitals are strong and there’s startling force in her unpredictable convulsions and bone-chilling noises. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 16 Apr. 2026 The Best Actor category, in particular, has honored a wide variety of performance types, from bone-chilling turns like Anthony Hopkins in The Silence of the Lambs (1991) to heroic tributes to human decency like Gregory Peck in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962). — Devan Coggan, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Mar. 2026 On our final push back to the lodge, the weather’s mood shifts again, and we’re battered by bone-chilling wind. — Jen Murphy, Robb Report, 8 Mar. 2026 During the last week of January, an arctic blast hit Texas, bringing ice and bone-chilling temperatures. — Elissa Jorgensen, Dallas Morning News, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bone-chilling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bone-chilling
  1. frigid
  2. icy
  3. cold
  4. chilly
  5. freezing
  6. chill
  7. cool
Adjective
  • Consider using an anti-desiccant spray in the early spring, which adds a protective waxy layer to the leaves that helps reduce temperature loss during frigid, dry weather.
    — The Spruce, The Spruce, 8 Sep. 2026
  • On a planet where the temperature can top 800 degrees, the poles are frigid with deep, permanently shadowed craters packed with ice.
    — Marcia Dunn, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2026
Definition of frigid
Adjective
  • Only the director is clearly visible, with co-director Szor serving as cinematographer along with an unnamed camera crew, capturing 24 difficult conversations in front of nighttime cityscapes that have the icy feel of a Michael Mann movie.
    — Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 10 Sep. 2026
  • The temperature might be warmer for the rematch but the reception might be just as icy.
    — Elliott Teaford, Oc Register, 8 Sep. 2026
Definition of icy
Adjective
  • New England had a 3rd-and-1 close to midfield, but its rush attempt was stopped cold and the Patriots punted.
    — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 10 Sep. 2026
  • These days still call for cold drinks and as little clothing as is practicable.
    — Brenda Looper, Arkansas Online, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of cold
Adjective
  • The Vuori Women’s Sedona Pullover Hoodie is cropped and crafted from super-soft French terry, while the Vuori Women’s Alltheform Fitness Jacket is the perfect moisture-wicking layer for chilly morning runs.
    — Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 3 Sep. 2026
  • The thick knit has rib detailing throughout the sweater, and the material is breathable to work for chilly days and nights.
    — Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of chilly
Adjective
  • But just outside in the freezing terrain lies a woman who appears to be frozen in the snow.
    — Pete Hammond, Deadline, 8 Sep. 2026
  • Fall brings cooler weather and colorful leaves, while winter offers fewer crowds but freezing nights and possible snow and ice.
    — Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 6 Sep. 2026
Definition of freezing
Adjective
  • Judd’s furniture asks you to admire it; Heilmann’s asks you to sit down and chill.
    — Jerry Saltz, Vulture, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Older age statements, barrel-strength bottlings, non-chill filtration, single barrels, micro-batches and distinctive packaging led to sustained success in export markets like Japan and Europe.
    — Chris Perugini, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of chill
Adjective
  • The neighborhood/area Located in Westchester County, the town of Bedford boasts a few cool must-sees, like the 4,300-acre Ward Pound Ridge park and the historic home of Founding Father John Jay.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Sep. 2026
  • There was nothing that had escaped being stamped with the Festival’s ubiquitous emblem–sweets, cigarettes, perfume, even sandals–Specially designed to keep you cool and smartly shod for fun-loving Festival walking!
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2026
Definition of cool

Browse Nearby Words

bone
bone-chilling
boned
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Cite this Entry

“Bone-chilling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bone-chilling. Accessed 15 Sep. 2026.

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