Etymology Journal ยท C
Cold shoulder
Meaning
- The act of intentionally ignoring someone or showing them lack of warmth. It is a sign of social exclusion or silent disapproval.
Sharp, biting
Used in a sentence
- I said hello to her in the hallway but she gave me the cold shoulder.
- He has been giving me the cold shoulder ever since I missed his party.
- I don't know why she is giving me the cold shoulder today.
The backstory
This dates back to the early 19th century. Some legends suggest it refers to serving a cold shoulder of mutton to an unwanted guest as a hint to leave.
Heard in
Nationwide
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