Wintry

Wintry describes something characteristic of, resembling, or appropriate to winter. This can pertain to the season itself, with its cold temperatures, snow, and ice, but also extends metaphorically to describe a feeling, mood, or appearance reminiscent of winter. It often evokes a sense of coldness, bleakness, harshness, or a lack of warmth and vibrancy. The term suggests a certain severity or austerity, hinting at the dormancy and challenges often associated with the winter months. Wintry weather, settings, or even emotional states can convey feelings of isolation, stillness, and quiet beauty, although these aspects may be tinged with a sense of hardship. The term often implies that an environment lacks the warmth and the vitality often associated with other seasons. It serves as a rich and often evocative descriptive term.

Wintry meaning with examples

• The hikers faced a Wintry landscape, with bare trees and snow-covered peaks. Visibility was limited by swirling snow and a biting wind. They had to bundle up with multiple layers. The frozen path made travel difficult, slowing their pace, and highlighting the stark beauty of the silent, remote wilderness. They had anticipated some cold weather but the actual conditions were truly formidable, adding an element of danger to their already challenging expedition.
• Her expression turned Wintry when she heard the news, her smile fading and her features hardening. The joy in the room diminished. Her eyes lost their usual sparkle and her voice took on a sharp edge. The sudden change in her demeanor signaled deep disappointment, creating a chilling atmosphere in the previously cheerful conversation. Her words were cold and clipped, reflecting her emotional state.
• The old house had a Wintry feel, with its drafty rooms and sparse furnishings, creating a stark and unwelcoming ambiance. The air within felt chilled. The unlit fireplace added to the feeling of neglect. Sunlight barely penetrated the frosted windows, enhancing the impression of desolation and the passing of time. It exuded an atmosphere of isolation, adding to a sense of loneliness.
• The Wintry color palette of the film, dominated by blues and grays, effectively enhanced the story's theme of isolation and despair. The bleak aesthetic underscored the protagonist’s internal struggles. Even the costumes were muted and uninviting. The setting helped establish the prevailing mood, making the environment feel colder and less accessible, mirroring the protagonist's internal state. The setting felt like a silent character in the film.
• Despite the holiday decorations, there was a Wintry chill in the air. The decorations felt strangely out of place with the biting air, adding a sense of contrast. People hurried indoors, seeking warmth. A palpable sense of loneliness permeated the usually festive atmosphere, as many individuals sought solace inside. The lights seemed to cast more shadows than warmth, signaling a lack of festive spirit.