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Coldly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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coldly

[ˈkoʊldli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a distant or unfriendly manner

If you behave coldly towards someone, you are not friendly or show any emotion towards them. It can also mean without feeling or sympathy.

Synonyms

aloofly, icy, indifferently, unemotionally.

Examples of usage

  • She looked at him coldly and turned away.
  • He spoke coldly, without a hint of warmth in his voice.
  • Don't treat her coldly just because you had an argument.
  • The manager dealt with the situation coldly and efficiently.
  • I was taken aback by how coldly she rejected my proposal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literary works, characters behaving coldly often represent emotional detachment or moral ambiguity.
  • Famous authors like Jane Austen would depict coldly behaved characters to highlight social norms or critique society.
  • The term is frequently used in poetry to evoke feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Psychology

  • Behavior that is described as coldly can indicate underlying psychological conditions like depression or social anxiety.
  • Social psychologists note that cold responses may stem from past trauma or fear of vulnerability.
  • Research suggests that people often misinterpret coldness as a sign of strength, rather than a lack of connection.

Pop Culture

  • Coldly portrayed characters often appear in films as villains or emotionally unavailable partners, adding dramatic tension.
  • Popular music often depicts coldness in relationships, conveying themes of heartbreak or betrayal.
  • The phrase 'coldly indifferent' is frequently used in critiques of political figures, suggesting a lack of empathy.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have long debated the nature of human emotion, where coldness can signify rationality over emotional impulse.
  • Existentialists explore the concept of being coldly detached from society as a form of personal freedom.
  • Coldness is contrasted with warmth, often serving as a metaphor for ethical discussions on human interactions.

Origin of 'coldly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'coldly' comes from the Old English 'cald', which means low temperature.
  • The '-ly' suffix indicates the manner in which something is done, transforming 'cold' into an adverb describing behavior.
  • In ancient use, 'cold' was often associated with not just temperature, but also emotional states.

The word 'coldly' originates from the Middle English word 'caldely' meaning 'chillingly, coldly'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over time, its meaning has evolved to describe a lack of warmth or emotion in one's behavior or attitude towards others.

See also: cold, coldness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,775, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.