chilly
adj. · n.-
1 cold weather (adj.) A2 Elementaryuncomfortably cold, but not freezing.
noticeably cold in a way that causes discomfort; typically used for weather or indoor environments.
ExampleIt is a bit chilly outside today, so you should probably wear a jacket.
ExampleThe morning air was unexpectedly chilly for June, forcing the hikers to reconsider their choice of lightweight clothing before heading into the valley.
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2 feeling cold (adj.) A2 Elementarythe feeling of being cold in your body.
experiencing a sensation of coldness.
ExampleI feel a little chilly with the window open.
ExampleAfter standing in the rain for twenty minutes, she felt quite chilly and headed straight for the fireplace once she got home.
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3 unfriendly (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediatenot friendly or welcoming.
characterised by a lack of warmth or enthusiasm; distant and cool in manner.
ExampleThe staff gave us a chilly reception when we arrived late for our reservation.
ExampleThe atmosphere in the boardroom remained chilly throughout the afternoon as neither side was willing to compromise on the contract terms.
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4 spicy pepper (n.) B1 Intermediate British English Cookinga small, spicy pepper used in cooking.
an alternative spelling of 'chili', referring to the small, hot-tasting fruit of a capsicum plant.
ExampleBe careful when cutting the chilly because the seeds are very hot.
ExampleThe recipe calls for one finely chopped green chilly, but you can add more if you prefer a spicier curry.
UsageIn British English, 'chilli' is the standard spelling, while 'chilly' is occasionally seen as a variant, though 'chilli' is preferred for the food.
From chill + -y. Cognate with Swedish kylig (“chilly”), Norwegian kjølig (“chilly”).
See chili.