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Region: UK | Usage example: After the dispute, she gave him the cold shoulder.

Cold shoulder

Meaning

Deliberately ignore someone.

Usage

Used for social snubs.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Offering cold meat to unwanted guests.

British expression from the 19th century.

Related Idioms

Give someone the cold shoulder

Deliberately ignore someone.

Give you the cold shoulder

Ignore someone deliberately to show disapproval.

Give someone the cold shoulder

Ignore or snub someone intentionally.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.