COLD SHOULDER Meaning and
Definition
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The term "cold shoulder" refers to an act of deliberate disregard or indifference towards someone, often demonstrated by intentionally ignoring or neglecting them. It is typically a subtle form of rejection or snub that is communicated through non-verbal cues or a general lack of warmth and attention.
The phrase originated from the literal action of turning one's shoulder away from another person, as if to avoid making eye contact or engaging in conversation with them. This gesture symbolizes a dismissal or exclusion from social interaction, conveying a sense of disinterest or disapproval.
This expression is commonly used to describe situations where someone is intentionally excluded or ignored by another individual or a group. Whether it is in a social gathering, workplace, or personal relationship, giving someone the cold shoulder can be a way to express displeasure, assert dominance, or establish boundaries.
The act of giving someone the cold shoulder can have various motivations, such as conveying anger, expressing dissatisfaction, or as a form of punishment. It may be a result of unresolved conflicts, misunderstandings, or simply a personal choice to distance oneself from another person.
In summary, "cold shoulder" refers to the deliberate action of ignoring or neglecting someone as a means of conveying indifference or disapproval. It is a non-verbal signal often used to express a range of negative emotions and can occur in various social contexts.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for COLD SHOULDER
- xold shoulder
- vold shoulder
- fold shoulder
- dold shoulder
- cild shoulder
- ckld shoulder
- clld shoulder
- cpld shoulder
- c0ld shoulder
- c9ld shoulder
- cokd shoulder
- copd shoulder
- cood shoulder
- cols shoulder
- colx shoulder
- colc shoulder
- colf shoulder
- colr shoulder
- cole shoulder
- cold ahoulder
Etymology of COLD SHOULDER
The phrase "cold shoulder" is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It has its roots in the English language, and the etymology can be traced to an old practice of serving a cold shoulder of meat to an unwelcome guest or an inferior individual. This act symbolized a lack of hospitality and was a way to subtly indicate disapproval or to signal distance. Over time, the phrase "cold shoulder" came to be used metaphorically to describe the behavior of intentionally ignoring or slighting someone, typically by displaying indifference or aloofness towards them.
Idioms with the word COLD SHOULDER
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give cold shoulder
The idiom "give cold shoulder" means to intentionally ignore or show indifference towards someone, usually as a way of expressing disapproval, displeasure, or wanting to distance oneself from them. It involves intentionally neglecting or avoiding any form of interaction or acknowledgement.
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give sb the cold shoulder
The idiom "give someone the cold shoulder" means to intentionally ignore, disregard, or treat someone with aloofness and indifference. It implies being unfriendly, unresponsive, and not engaging with the person in question.
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give somebody the cold shoulder
To give somebody the cold shoulder means to intentionally ignore or show indifference towards someone, often as a form of punishment or disapproval. It involves deliberately withholding attention or not acknowledging their presence, causing them to feel rejected or excluded.
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give someone the cold shoulder
The idiom "give someone the cold shoulder" means to deliberately ignore or treat someone with indifference, usually in a distant or unfriendly manner.
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give (one) the cold shoulder
The idiom "give (one) the cold shoulder" means to intentionally ignore or snub someone, typically by being distant or aloof towards them. It can involve showing an unresponsive or dismissive attitude, often as a form of social disapproval or punishment.
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the cold shoulder
The idiom "the cold shoulder" is used to describe the act of deliberately ignoring or purposely giving someone a dismissive or unfriendly treatment.
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give the cold shoulder
The idiom "give the cold shoulder" means to deliberately ignore, snub, or treat someone in an unfriendly or unsympathetic manner, often by refusing to speak to them or acknowledge their presence.
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turn a cold shoulder to
The idiom "turn a cold shoulder to" means to deliberately ignore or show aloofness towards someone, usually as a form of disapproval or indifference. It implies intentionally snubbing or rejecting someone's presence or gestures.
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give sb/sth the cold shoulder
The idiom "give sb/sth the cold shoulder" means to intentionally ignore or snub someone or something, usually as a sign of disapproval, indifference, or rejection. It can involve purposely excluding someone from a conversation or social interaction, rejecting their advances or gestures, or simply treating them with disregard or aloofness.
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get the cold shoulder
The idiom "get the cold shoulder" means to be given deliberate dismissal, neglect, or aloofness, usually by someone who is intentionally showing disinterest or unfriendliness towards another person.
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give somebody/get the cold shoulder
The idiom "give somebody/get the cold shoulder" means to intentionally ignore or treat someone in a cold and unfriendly manner, often as a form of punishment or displeasure. It typically involves intentionally avoiding any form of interaction or communication with the person.
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cold shoulder
The idiom "cold shoulder" refers to intentionally ignoring or showing indifference towards someone, typically as a form of punishment or rejection.
Similar spelling words for COLD SHOULDER
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