chilling

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Gonzalez’s case isn’t over, but it has already sent a chilling message.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

"What chilling effect does that have on the world we live in? You don't like what a public official does and you make a joke, and you're dragged into court?"

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

It also “vibe scented” a horror movie, creating a fragrance, distributed at screenings, that “captures the chilling, damp, metallic stillness of a nightmare that won’t let you escape,” according to the film’s press materials.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

Gomez added that while attempts to pull licenses border on folly, Carr’s threats and attacks on the media can create a chilling effect and erode the public’s confidence in the press.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

Will’s fleshy face contorted and a memory swept over him like a chilling wind.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck