WorldAugust 16, 2026
chilling
CHIL-ing
Definition
Causing a person to feel hesitant, afraid, or discouraged from exercising their rights due to the threat of negative consequences or punishment.
Etymology
Derived from the Middle English 'chillen,' meaning to grow cold or feel cold, which itself comes from Old English 'cele'. Over time, it evolved to metaphorically describe an inhibiting or discouraging influence on freedom or action.
In the news
The article uses 'chilling' to describe the potential suppressive effect that punishing law students for political dissent might have on future student expression and academic freedom.
From Legal Regulation to Student Discipline: Has the BCI Crossed the Line?
Read the full article ↗thewire.in