The term COLD AND BLEAK can be summarized by the word 'ARCTIC', which is a 6-letter word. The ARCTIC is a region located at the northernmost part of the Earth, characterized by cold temperatures and barren landscapes. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including polar bears, seals, and whales. The ARCTIC is also known for its vast ice sheets and glaciers, making it a very inhospitable environment for humans.