na-adjective, noun
cool and clear; limpid and refreshing
Describes water or air that is pleasantly cool, clean, and transparent. Often used in literary or poetic contexts.
山の清冽な空気が心地よい。
The cool, clear mountain air is pleasant.
この川の水は清冽で、夏でも冷たい。
The water of this river is cool and clear, and cold even in summer.
Composed of 清 (pure, clear) and 冽 (cold, clear). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination naturally conveys cool clarity.