cold feet
Meaning
Sudden nervousness or fear that makes you hesitate or back out of something you planned to do.
Origin
Recorded from the late 1800s. Likely draws on the physical sensation of fear or anxiety (poor circulation, trembling), and was popularized in English through gambling and later wider everyday use.
Notes
Often used for last-minute hesitation before a big commitment (wedding, speech, risky plan). Informal but common; can sound mildly critical depending on tone.
Examples
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I was excited about the skydiving trip, but I got cold feet the night before and canceled.
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She was ready to accept the promotion until she got cold feet about managing a bigger team.
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Don’t get cold feet now—we’ve practiced this presentation all week.
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He got cold feet and backed out of the deal at the last minute.
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They were planning to move abroad, but cold feet kept them from buying the tickets.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Common patterns: “get/have cold feet” and “give someone cold feet” (cause hesitation). Usually plural “feet”; rarely singular. Can be used with past tense: “got cold feet.”
Synonyms
- get nervous
- have second thoughts
- lose your nerve
- chicken out
Antonyms
- go through with it
- commit
- follow through