
Where does the phrase 'cold turkey' come from? | Merriam-Webster
Ever quit something cold turkey and wonder why you've quit it in such a manner? On the serious side, the phrase is often used when the quitting brings physical symptoms of withdrawal, as with heroin or …
This Is the Origin of the Phrase "Quit Cold Turkey"
Apr 29, 2025 · Broadly speaking, quit cold turkey or go cold turkey means to stop doing something completely, usually an addictive habit. The most common example you’ll likely hear is that someone …
COLD TURKEY | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary
go cold turkey Six years ago, she went cold turkey on (= stopped completely) a 60-a-day smoking habit. US She had been trying to quit cold turkey without the support of a doctor.
cold turkey - Idioms by The Free Dictionary
Immediate, complete withdrawal from something, especially an addictive substance; also, without planning or preparation. For example, My bad shoulder forced me to quit playing tennis cold turkey, …
Cold Turkey – Idiom, Origin and Meaning - GRAMMARIST
What Does Cold Turkey Mean? Cold turkey is probably one of the most common idioms, and it describes the sudden and complete termination of a bad habit or addiction.
Why Do We Say ‘Going Cold Turkey’? - Word Smarts
In this sense, the expression comes from a combination of the word “cold,” meaning “straightforward,” and the idiom “ talk turkey,” meaning “to speak frankly and get down to business.” “Cold turkey” was …
Cold turkey - Meaning, Origin and Usage
Mar 12, 2025 · Discover the meaning and origin of 'cold turkey' idiom. Learn how this phrase describes abrupt cessation of habits and its historical background.
“Cold Turkey” Meaning, Origin and Examples - 7ESL
Feb 12, 2020 · “Cold turkey” means stopping a habit or addiction abruptly and completely, without gradually reducing or using aids to help. It is often used in the context of quitting drugs, smoking, or …
COLD TURKEY definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary
Cold turkey is the unpleasant physical reaction that people experience when they suddenly stop taking a drug that they have become addicted to.
What Does "Cold Turkey" Really Mean? - bradleysfinediner.com
Mar 6, 2025 · Cold turkey means to quit or abstain from doing or using something. It can be a reference to anything but it is often used when quitting something addictive like illegal drugs, coffee, chocolate, …