Standard Lemma guide

cold-shoulder

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To disrespect someone, especially by ignoring them; to slight or snub someone.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

pay no attention to, disrespect

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • She cold-shouldered her ex-fiance

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: slight

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: dismiss, disregard, brush aside, brush off, discount, push aside, ignore

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

4 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Chinese Mandarin: 不理不睬 (bùlǐbùcǎi) — slight or snub someone
  • Chinese Mandarin: 冷落 (lěngluò) — slight or snub someone
  • Chinese Mandarin: 冷淡 (lěngdàn) — slight or snub someone
  • Finnish: kohdella kylmästi — slight or snub someone