Give someone the cold shoulder

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Meaning

To snub or shun, give chill.

Origin

From 19th-century Britain, tied to hosts; cold shoulder for outcasts, slang by 1810s in a Scott tale for snub. A 1830s 'Punch' uses it for a cut.

Variants

  • Cold shoulder

Usage Examples

  • She gave him the cold shoulder; ignored him.
  • Give the cold shoulder; shut him out.
  • Cold shoulder; chill vibe.

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