Pronunciation: [kˈə͡ʊldtɜːkɪ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "coldturkey" might seem odd at first, but it actually makes sense when broken down phonetically. The "cold" part is spelled as expected, but the "turkey" part is where it gets interesting. The "k" sound in "turkey" is represented by the letter "k," while the "ey" sound is represented by the letter "e" followed by the letter "y." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /koʊldtɜrki/.
Cold turkey is a colloquial term that refers to the act of abruptly quitting or stopping a particular behavior, substance, or addiction without any prior preparation or gradual reduction. This term is commonly associated with the sudden cessation of drug or alcohol use, but it can also be applied to quitting other habits such as smoking, overeating, or even excessive use of technology.
When one goes "cold turkey," they choose to immediately discontinue the behavior or substance, typically without the assistance of any medical treatments or professional guidance. This decision often arises from a strong determination to break free from the grip of addiction or the desire to make a significant lifestyle change. Going cold turkey is considered as a method that requires considerable willpower and dedication, as the individual experiences withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and a range of physical and psychological effects due to the sudden discontinuation.
The term "cold turkey" may have originated from the phrase "talk turkey," which means to speak plainly or directly. The analogy suggests that quitting cold turkey is a direct, straightforward approach to ending an addiction or habit. This drastic method is often chosen to avoid the potential pitfalls of tapering off gradually, as some individuals find it easier to quit something entirely rather than attempting moderation. Going cold turkey is a personal decision, but in certain cases, it may be recommended to seek professional guidance to minimize potential risks or complications associated with abrupt cessation.
The term "cold turkey" originated in the early 1900s and its etymology is somewhat debated. There are a few theories about its origins:
1. Drug Addiction Theory: One commonly accepted theory is that "cold turkey" originated in the context of drug addiction, particularly during the heroin epidemic in the early 1900s. When addicts abruptly stopped using drugs, they experienced various withdrawal symptoms, including goosebumps on the skin, resembling the cold, bumpy texture of a plucked turkey. Thus, the term "cold turkey" emerged to describe the sudden, unassisted quitting of drugs.
2. Cold Food Theory: Another theory suggests that the term comes from the contrast between the "cold turkey" method and gradual quitting, as it is often served as a leftover dish consumed after Thanksgiving, when people traditionally ate warm or cooked food.
