cold shoulder
Meaning
Deliberate unfriendliness or ignoring someone to show disapproval or lack of interest.
Origin
Often traced to a 19th‑century idea of giving an unwelcome guest a cold shoulder of meat (instead of a warm meal), later generalized to mean a chilly reception. The precise origin is debated but the metaphor of “coldness” = unfriendliness is clear.
Notes
Usually implies intentional snubbing/ignoring, often because of annoyance or disapproval. Common in everyday speech; can sound accusatory if said directly.
Examples
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She gave me the cold shoulder at the party.
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Ever since I apologized, he’s been giving me the cold shoulder.
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My boss gave my idea the cold shoulder, so I didn’t push it.
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Stop giving her the cold shoulder and treat her fairly.
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After I switched teams, some of my old coworkers gave me the cold shoulder.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Most common as a fixed phrase: “give someone the cold shoulder.” Also used as a noun phrase: “get the cold shoulder,” “receive the cold shoulder.” Article is typically “the.”
Synonyms
- snub
- ignore
- freeze out
- give someone the brush-off
Antonyms
- welcome someone warmly
- roll out the red carpet
- embrace