the cold shoulder

NOUN

disregard

Synonyms

STRONGEST

apathy contempt disdain disrespect inattention indifference neglect negligence scorn

STRONG

brush-off disesteem disfavor disinterest forgetting heedlessness inadvertence insouciance lassitude lethargy listlessness neglecting oblivion omission omitting overlooking oversight slight slighting unconcern unmindfulness

Antonyms

STRONGEST

admiration approval care concern esteem feeling interest love regard respect sympathy

STRONG

remembrance

WEAK

attention honor note

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sure, in public, some executives may give him the cold shoulder, but when he’s in small meetings, or dealing with executives one-on-one, he says the vibe is excitement.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

“Yellowstone” and “Marshals” star Luke Grimes recently told podcaster Joe Rogan that he’s gotten the cold shoulder after moving to the Big Sky State with his family.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

His early attempts to fit in did not go well; the other monkeys gave him either the cold shoulder or a very hard time.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

But I've been given the cold shoulder ever since - not by everyone, but a few individuals, coaches and players.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2025

I know I shouldn’t give her the cold shoulder.

From "The Sea in Winter" by Christine Day

the cold shoulder

Example Sentences

Related Words