Gelid

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈdʒɛlɪd/

Definitions

• 1. (Adjective) Extremely cold, icy, or frozen. Example: "The gelid winds cut through the thick clothing."
• 2. (Adjective) Having a frigid or unfeeling demeanor, lacking warmth or emotion. Example: "Her gelid response to the news left everyone in shock."

Usage Examples

• "The gelid waters of the mountain lake were unbearable to swim in." (Adjective)
• "His gelid stare made her uncomfortable during the meeting." (Adjective)
• "A gelid breeze swept across the deserted street, chilling everyone to the bone." (Adjective)

Etymology

The word "gelid" originates from the Latin word "gelidus," meaning "icy" or "cold." This word is derived from "gelu," meaning "frost" or "cold," and has been used in English since the early 17th century to describe extremely cold conditions or a chilling attitude.

Synonyms

• Freezing
• Icy
• Frigid
• Chilly
• Cold

Antonyms

• Warm
• Hot
• Temperate
• Cozy

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "gelid" remains fairly consistent across most regions, with a slight variation in emphasis, especially in British and American English. Some may emphasize the first syllable more, while others give equal stress to both syllables.

Historical Usage

The word "gelid" has been used in English since the 17th century, particularly in literary and poetic contexts to describe cold, icy, or emotionally distant situations. Its usage has been common in descriptions of wintry landscapes or cold-hearted characters in literature.

Cultural Nuances

In English-speaking cultures, the term "gelid" is often used metaphorically to describe something emotionally cold or indifferent. It might describe a person's demeanor, an attitude, or even the atmosphere in a particular setting. In colder climates, it may also be used literally to describe extreme cold conditions.

More Information

The term "gelid" is most commonly used in descriptive writing, especially when detailing extreme weather conditions or the emotional distance between individuals. It evokes an image of intense cold, whether physical or emotional. It is not commonly used in casual conversation but may be found in literature, poetry, and more formal writing.