Give the cold shoulder
Meaning
To intentionally ignore someone or treat them in an unfriendly manner, often as a sign of displeasure or rejection.
Origin
The phrase "give the cold shoulder" evokes a chilling image of deliberate unfriendliness, but its roots are surprisingly culinary and date back to earlier customs of hospitality. In medieval times, a host offering a guest a warm meal—a hot joint of meat, fresh bread, and good company—signified a genuine welcome. If a guest, however, was no longer desired or had overstayed their welcome, the host might offer a mere slice from a cold shoulder of mutton or beef. This cold, unappetizing dish was a subtle yet unmistakable signal: "Your welcome has worn thin, and it's time for you to leave." Over time, the literal cold meat vanished, but the figurative "cold shoulder" remained, a potent symbol of deliberate rejection and intentional coolness.
Examples
- After their argument, she decided to give him the cold shoulder all evening, refusing to make eye contact.
- Feeling hurt by the comment, he gave his friend the cold shoulder for the rest of the meeting, barely responding to questions.