cold, majestic

凜 is composed of 仌 (ice) and 稟 (endow). 仌 is a pictograph representing ice or ice blocks, while 稟 carries the meaning of bestowing or endowing. Thus, 凜 conveys the idea of the chilling coldness bestowed by ice; it means severe cold or piercingly cold. This sense extends to imply sternness or majesty.