chill

The word "chill" is similar to "cold," but you can also use it as a noun or as a verb:

• You’ll need a coat when you go outside because there’s a noticeable chill in the air. (This sentence uses "chill" as a noun.)
• Please keep this dessert in the refrigerator. It needs to chill before it’s served. (This sentence uses"chill" as an infinitive.)
• A cold chill went up her spine when she went to the door and saw two police officers standing there.

You often hear "chill" used as an adjective. To do that, add "y" to the end of the word:

• Mina felt chilly, so she put on a sweater.
• It’s a little chilly outside.
• Our house is kind of chilly. We should turn up the thermostat.
• He feels very chilly.

Recently, the word "chill" has become a popular slang word that means to relax:

• We’re going to chill at home for a few hours before we go out again.
• That guy had better chill out. He’s way too upset about this. (chill out = calm down)

Very recently, some people have decided to combine the words "relax" and "chill" to form "chillax."

• Chillax. We don’t need to worry about getting a seat. There will be plenty of places to sit.

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This page was originally published on November 9, 2011.

Updated on December 5, 2018