Give someone the cold shoulder
Meaning
To intentionally ignore or be unfriendly towards someone, often as a sign of displeasure or rejection.
Origin
Imagine a host in Victorian England, keen to politely usher out an unwelcome guest. A lavish dinner, full of warmth and conversation, was often concluded with a final dish. For cherished company, a succulent, freshly roasted "warm shoulder" of meat might be presented, extending the evening's convivial atmosphere. But for those whose presence had worn thin, a "cold shoulder" of mutton, perhaps leftovers from a previous meal, would be served as a clear, albeit subtle, signal. This deliberate act of less generous hospitality became a widely understood social cue, signifying a desire to distance oneself, and thus "giving someone the cold shoulder" entered the language as a polite but firm dismissal.
Examples
- After their argument, she started giving him the cold shoulder at work, refusing to make eye contact.
- He was clearly upset, judging by the way he gave his former friend the cold shoulder at the party, barely acknowledging his presence.