COLD SHOULDERING Meaning and
Definition
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Cold shouldering refers to a social behavior wherein a person deliberately ignores or excludes another individual, typically as a means of expressing disapproval, anger, or indifference towards them. It involves actively avoiding any form of communication, contact, or interaction with the person being cold-shouldered. This treatment can often be extended beyond personal relationships and be applied to groups, organizations, or even nations.
The act of cold-shouldering is characterized by deliberately refusing to acknowledge the presence or existence of the individual in question. This can manifest in several ways, such as avoiding eye contact, refusing to engage in conversation, or intentionally excluding them from social gatherings or events. Cold shoulder behavior aims to isolate and ostracize the targeted person, serving as a form of silent protest or punishment for some perceived wrongdoing or as a means to assert power or control over the situation.
Commonly observed in both personal and professional settings, cold shouldering often stems from unresolved conflicts, perceived betrayals, or a breakdown in communication. It can act as a passive-aggressive tactic to send a message or to express one's dissatisfaction without directly confronting the issue at hand. The duration of being cold-shouldered can vary, ranging from short-lived instances to more prolonged, ongoing situations.
Overall, cold shouldering is a social phenomenon where an individual deliberately ignores or excludes another person, using silence and indifference as a method of expressing disapproval, conveying hurt, or asserting control.
Common Misspellings for COLD SHOULDERING
- coldshoeuldering
- coldshoulderinng
- coldshouldewring
Etymology of COLD SHOULDERING
The phrase "cold shouldering" has its origins in the literal action of turning one's shoulder away from someone, signaling a lack of warmth or welcoming attitude. It is derived from the verb "to shoulder", which means to carry or bear a burden on one's shoulders. The adjective "cold" emphasizes the lack of warmth or affection in this gesture. Over time, this physical action came to be associated with ignoring or excluding someone socially. The phrase "cold shouldering" emerged in the early 19th century as a metaphorical expression to describe deliberately snubbing someone or treating them with indifference.
