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Cold shoulder
01
an attitude or behavior characterized by a lack of warmth, friendliness, or interest
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "cold shoulder" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "cold shoulder" is uncertain, but there are a few theories about its origin. One theory suggests that it comes from the custom of serving a cold shoulder of meat to an unwelcome guest as a sign of rejection or disinterest. Another theory links it to the practice of turning one's shoulder coldly toward someone to show indifference or lack of interest. Regardless, this expression is now used to describe situations where someone is intentionally being distant or unfriendly towards another person.
cold shoulder
n
Example
The manager displayed a cold shoulder towards the employee who had made a mistake.
After our argument, my sister has been giving me the cold shoulder, refusing to speak to me.
She approached him with a friendly smile, but she got the cold shoulder, as he turned away without a word.
Despite being in the same office, John always gives his co-workers the cold shoulder and rarely engages in conversations with them.
Despite her attempts to reconcile, he offered her a cold shoulder, refusing to engage in conversation.
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