Chilling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chilling
[ˈtʃɪlɪŋ ]
Definitions
relaxing
To relax or spend time in a lazy and unproductive way.
Synonyms
lounging, relaxing, unwinding.
Examples of usage
- I love chilling on the beach with a good book.
- After a long day at work, I just want to chill and watch some TV.
socializing
A social gathering or a casual hangout with friends.
Synonyms
gathering, get-together, hangout.
Examples of usage
- Let's have a chilling session at my place this weekend.
- The chilling at the park was a great way to catch up with everyone.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Many horror movies make use of 'chilling' moments to build suspense, often involving unexpected scares.
- The phrase 'chilling out' often appears in the 1990s hip-hop culture, signaling a relaxed lifestyle.
- Chilling music genres like ambient and chillwave create soothing, atmospheric sounds that help listeners relax.
Psychology
- Experiencing something 'chilling' can trigger a fight-or-flight response, making your heart race due to fear.
- When people feel 'chilled out,' it often refers to a state of reduced stress and increased comfort, beneficial for mental health.
- Chilling experiences, whether thrilling or terrifying, can lead to stronger emotional connections with others during shared experiences.
Literature
- Many suspense novels create chilling atmospheres through detailed descriptions, heightening tension and fear.
- Edgar Allan Poe is famous for his chilling tales that often explore themes of death and despair.
- The chill genre in literature often focuses on atmospheric tension, making the reader feel uneasy even without overt horror.
Origin of 'chilling'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'chill' comes from the Old English 'ciele', which meant coldness. It has evolved to describe both temperature and feelings.
- In the 20th century, 'chill' began to be used informally to mean having a relaxed or laid-back attitude.
- The term 'chilling effect' originated in legal contexts, describing situations where fear of repercussions discourages action.
The word 'chilling' originated from the Old English word 'cilian', which meant 'to be calm or quiet'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the idea of relaxing or socializing in a casual way. In modern usage, 'chilling' is commonly used to describe taking it easy or spending leisure time with friends and loved ones.
See also: chill, chilled, chiller, chilliness, chilly.