chilling crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "chilling," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "chilling crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
COLD: Pertaining to a low temperature or an unsympathetic demeanor.
5 Letters
EERIE: Suggesting something mysterious, frightening, or strange.
8 Letters
RELAXING: Implies a state of ease, calm, or unwinding, often colloquially "chilling out".
11 Letters
FRIGHTENING: Causing fear or dread, intensely scary.
More About "chilling crossword clue"
The clue "chilling" is a classic example of a crossword setter's favorite type of word: one with multiple distinct meanings. This ambiguity can be challenging but also quite satisfying when you find the correct fit. Depending on the puzzle's theme or other crossing words, "chilling" could point to something literally cold, like a winter's day, or metaphorically cold, like a reception.
Beyond temperature, "chilling" frequently appears in crosswords to describe something that causes fear or a sense of unease, conjuring images of horror stories or unsettling atmospheres. However, in modern colloquial use, "chilling" often refers to relaxing or unwinding, as in "just chilling at home." Being aware of these different interpretations is key to solving such versatile clues.
To successfully tackle "chilling," always consider the letter count first, then brainstorm synonyms for each meaning until you find one that fits the grid. Context from adjacent clues is invaluable here, guiding you towards the intended meaning, be it frigid, frightening, or laid-back.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters in the answer is often your best friend. For multi-meaning clues like "chilling," certain interpretations might only fit specific lengths.
- Consider All Meanings: Don't get stuck on the first meaning that comes to mind. "Chilling" can mean cold, scary, or relaxing. Jot down synonyms for each interpretation.
- Look at Crossing Clues: The letters revealed by intersecting words are crucial. They will quickly confirm or deny your hypotheses for "chilling" and help you narrow down the possibilities.
- Think Colloquially: Crosswords often use common idioms and informal expressions. "Chilling" as "relaxing" is a perfect example of a modern usage that might appear in a puzzle.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can 'chilling' mean different things in crosswords?
'Chilling' is a fantastic crossword clue due to its multiple meanings. It can refer to something literally cold (e.g., COLD, ICY), something frightening or spooky (e.g., EERIE, SCARY, FRIGHTENING), or colloquially, something relaxing or unwinding (e.g., RELAXING, CALM). The context of surrounding letters and the puzzle's theme often helps narrow down the intended meaning.
What is the best strategy when faced with a multi-meaning clue like 'chilling'?
When a clue has multiple interpretations, focus on the number of letters required for the answer. Then, consider which meaning fits the available letters and any crossing words. Try brainstorming synonyms for each interpretation (cold, scary, relaxing) and see which one fits the pattern. Don't be afraid to try a common answer first and see if it makes sense with other clues.
Are there other crossword clues similar to 'chilling' in their ambiguity?
Absolutely! Many crossword clues rely on wordplay and multiple meanings. Examples include 'CRANE' (a bird or a machine), 'BANK' (of a river or a financial institution), 'DATE' (a fruit or a romantic appointment), and 'LEAD' (a metal or to guide). These clues are designed to make solvers think creatively about the English language.