Cold: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'cold' to describe a low temperature in general, whether it's weather, an object, or a feeling. The word is neutral in connotation.

• It's very cold outside today.
• She has a cold drink in her hand.
• His hands are cold to the touch.

Use 'chilly' to describe a slightly cold and uncomfortable feeling, often due to weather or atmosphere. The word suggests a milder cold compared to 'freezing' or 'frigid'.

• It's a bit chilly; you might want to bring a sweater.
• The room felt chilly without the heater on.

Use 'cool' to describe a pleasantly low temperature. It can be used positively to suggest relief from heat or to describe a refreshing feeling. It contrasts with 'cold,' which can be uncomfortable.

• It's nice and cool in the shade.
• I prefer to drink cool water after a workout.

Use 'freezing' to describe extremely cold temperatures, often at or below the freezing point of water. The word emphasizes discomfort and can be used for dramatic effect.

• It's freezing outside; you need to bundle up!
• The freezing wind made it hard to walk.

Use 'frigid' to describe an intensely cold temperature, often with an emphasis on severity or extreme discomfort. The word carries a negative connotation.

• The frigid Arctic winds are brutal this time of year.
• She shivered in the frigid air of the winter night.

Use this word to describe a common, mild viral infection that primarily affects the nose and throat.

• I caught a cold last weekend
• Her cold is making her sneeze a lot

This term is used for a more severe viral infection that affects the respiratory system, often accompanied by fever, body aches, and fatigue.

• He was bedridden for a week due to the flu
• The flu season is particularly harsh this year

This is the medical term for the flu, often used in formal or medical contexts to describe the same viral infection.

• Influenza outbreaks can be widespread
• The doctor confirmed that she had influenza

This term is used in a general sense to refer to tiny infectious agents that can cause diseases, including the cold and flu.

• A virus is responsible for her illness
• Viruses can spread quickly in crowded places

Used to describe a lack of warmth or emotion in someone's behavior or attitude. It often has a negative connotation.

• She gave him a cold stare when he tried to apologize.
• His cold demeanor made it difficult to approach him.

Describes a lack of interest, concern, or sympathy towards someone or something. Generally has a negative connotation, implying an uncaring attitude.

• His indifference to the team's efforts was frustrating.
• The teacher's indifference to the students' struggles was shocking.

Refers to a person's deliberate distance from others, either emotionally or socially. It can imply a sense of superiority or disinterest.

• Her aloofness at the party made it clear she didn't want to socialize.
• His aloofness often made people think he was arrogant.

Indicates an emotional or mental separation from situations or people. It's often neutral but can be seen negatively if it implies insensitivity.

• His detachment from the project was noticeable to everyone.
• She handled the crisis with a level of detachment that was both admirable and concerning.