cold, strict, severe
凛 centers on a sharp, penetrating quality that can be physical cold or a stern, severe demeanor. The meanings 'cold', 'strict', and 'severe' all share this sense of an intense, bracing edge.
凛 combines the ice radical 冫 with 禀, which likely contributes the sound and the idea of something imposing or severe. The exact historical development of the right side is uncertain.
The ice radical 冫 on the left suggests coldness. The right side 禀 looks like a stern, imposing figure standing tall. Together, they create the image of a severe, icy presence.
For リン, imagine a strict teacher named Lynn who gives you a cold, severe look: Lynn -> リン, and her icy stare makes the room feel cold.
cold; frigid; bracing
gallant; manly; brave; imposing; awe-inspiring; chivalrous; dignified
severe; intense; awe-inspiring; commanding
commanding; awe-inspiring
biting (cold); severe; intense; piercing
commanding; awe-inspiring
full of spirit; brimming with courage; high-spirited; mettlesome
awe-inspiring; majestic; commanding; stately; with an imposing air; in a stately (dignified) manner
it (the weather) being piercing (bitterly) cold