SPINE-CHILLING Synonyms: 66 Similar and Opposite Words

spine-chilling

adjective

ˈspīn-ˌchi-liŋ

Definition of spine-chilling

as in terrifying

causing fear the soldiers let out a spine-chilling yell just before charging the enemy

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of spine-chilling In the three years since the war started, locals have gotten used to the spine-chilling sound of the sirens and mostly ignore it. — IEEE Spectrum, 18 May 2025 But rather than dilute the scare factor, the humor makes the sense of doom only more pitiless and Orlok’s plans for Ellen more spine-chilling. — David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Dec. 2024 This complex dress featured a mannequin-like attachment on the back, making for the ultimate spine-chilling moment. — Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 25 Jan. 2024 Her phrasing and breath control of the most difficult passages seemed effortless, and her high notes were spine-chilling. — Christian Hertzog, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 July 2023 See All Example Sentences for spine-chilling

Recent Examples of Synonyms for spine-chilling

Adjective

In the supernatural horror film, a young man wishes for Nikki to love him more than anything, but the wish quickly takes a terrifying turn.

— Denis Akbari, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026
Naomi Scott gives one of the best performances of 2024 as a pop star who becomes attached to the smile demon, sending her down a terrifying roller coaster to one of the most memorable horror-movie endings in years.

— Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of terrifying

Adjective

The thoughts that accompany these conditions can be alarming and frightening, making many women reluctant to talk about them or seek help.

— Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 28 Aug. 2026
There are frightening stories of swordfish charging boats, and even spearing their transoms and whacking propellers.

— Bob McNally, Outdoor Life, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of frightening

Adjective

Anne Hathaway is a leftist, woke, horrible choice for DAYS OF THUNDER NASCAR audience who are MAGA.

— James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2026
These two rubber bands in our throat are affected by everything from hormones to psychology to a bad day to a horrible night’s sleep to the sniffles or whatever.

— Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of horrible

Adjective

Whether the outcome will be terrible or beautiful is unclear.

— Robert Rubsam, New Yorker, 2 Sep. 2026
Feral pigeons are famously terrible nest builders and are drawn to buildings and roofs with features like solar panels, chimneys, eaves, and AC units to make their homes.

— Molly Burford, Southern Living, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of terrible

Browse Nearby Words

spine

spine-chilling

spineless

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“Spine-chilling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spine-chilling. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of spine-chilling

adjective

Example Sentences

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