Adjective
/ɡlɑˈθjal/ (in Spain) or /ɡleɪˈsiːəl/ (in Latin America)
The term "glacial" in Spanish primarily describes something that is related to glaciers, extremely cold, or resembles ice. It can be used both literally, when discussing temperatures or geographical features, and metaphorically to describe behaviors or emotional states characterized by coldness or lack of warmth.
The usage frequency of "glacial" is moderate; it is often used in both oral and written contexts, especially in academic or scientific discussions related to geography, climate, or environmental science. In literary contexts, it may also appear in descriptions of mood or atmosphere.
El paisaje glacial era impresionante al amanecer.
The glacial landscape was stunning at sunrise.
Las temperaturas glaciares no permiten la vida en esa región.
The glacial temperatures do not allow life in that region.
Su respuesta glacial me hizo sentir incómodo.
Her glacial response made me feel uncomfortable.
While "glacial" itself may not be part of many traditional idiomatic expressions, it can be noticed in various constructs that convey a sense of emotional coldness or detachment. Here are a few examples:
Su mirada glacial decía más que mil palabras.
Her glacial gaze said more than a thousand words.
"Corazón glacial"
A veces siento que tengo un corazón glacial, incapaz de amar.
Sometimes I feel that I have a glacial heart, incapable of loving.
"Calor glacial"
Su saludo era un calor glacial que me dejo perplejo.
His greeting was a glacial warmth that left me baffled.
"Actuar de manera glacial"
The word "glacial" derives from the Latin "glacies," which means "ice." It entered the Spanish language through Old French and has been used since the 16th century to describe anything relating to ice or glaciers.