Chill Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chill
[tʃɪl ]
Definitions
relaxation
To calm down or relax, to take it easy and not stress out.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chill |
Used in casual conversations to refer to taking it easy or not worrying too much. Often used among friends to suggest having a good time with no stress.
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| relax |
Commonly used to suggest taking a break from stress or work. It can also be used to tell someone to not worry too much. Generally polite and neutral.
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| unwind |
Typically used to describe the process of mentally and physically relaxing after being stressed or busy. Often associated with activities that help one release tension.
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| calm down |
Used when someone is visibly upset, stressed, or angry to encourage them to reduce their emotional intensity. It can sometimes be perceived as condescending if not used carefully.
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Examples of usage
- I just want to chill and watch some TV tonight.
- After a long day at work, I like to chill out with some music.
- Don't worry, just chill and enjoy the moment.
informal
A relaxed and easy-going attitude or atmosphere.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chill |
This word is often used in informal contexts to describe a state of being relaxed and not stressed. It can also refer to a feeling of cool temperature, but in the context of emotions, it implies taking things easy.
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| relaxation |
This word is used to refer specifically to the process or state of rest and leisure. It implies actively taking time off to rest or unwind.
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| ease |
Ease is used to describe a state of being free from difficulty, effort, or stress. It implies smoothness and comfort in situations.
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| calmness |
This term is used to describe a state of tranquility and peace. It is often used in more formal or descriptive contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The party had a great chill vibe.
- I like hanging out with him, he has such a chill personality.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'chill out' became popular in the 1980s, often used in music and movies to encourage relaxation and stress relief.
- Chill music is a genre that emerged from ambient music, designed to create a relaxed atmosphere for listeners.
- The term 'chill' often appears in social media contexts, as people use it to describe keeping calm amidst hectic lives.
Psychology
- 'Chilling out' is a common way to reduce stress, as it helps the brain reset and improves mood.
- Studies show that taking breaks to relax can increase productivity and creativity, countering burnout.
- Mindfulness practices, often described as 'chill methods', help individuals center themselves and promote emotional well-being.
Science
- Colder temperatures can slow down metabolic processes, which in animal behavior often leads to a state of rest.
- Chill is also used in thermodynamics to describe a decrease in temperature, which affects how substances behave.
- The concept of 'chill' extends into the study of climate, where it refers to lower temperatures and their long-term impacts on ecosystems.
Literature
- In many novels and stories, characters retreat to a 'chill' setting (like a snowy mountain) to reflect on life’s challenges.
- Poets often use the term 'chill' to symbolize loneliness or sadness, capturing the emotional landscape of their subjects.
- The juxtaposition of warmth and 'chill' is a common motif in literature, representing comfort against external harshness.
Origin of 'chill'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'chill' has roots in Old English, derived from 'ciele', which means 'cold'.
- In the 14th century, the word began to also mean to feel cold or to become cold.
- The slang use of 'chill' as in 'to relax' first emerged in the 20th century, particularly within youth culture.
The word 'chill' originated in the 17th century, coming from the Old English word 'cield' which meant cold. Over time, it evolved to also mean a sense of calmness or relaxation. In modern usage, 'chill' is commonly used to describe a state of relaxation or a laid-back attitude.
See also: chilled, chiller, chilliness, chilling, chilly.