COLD FEET Meaning and
Definition
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"Cold feet" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a state of fear, anxiety, or apprehension that prevents someone from going through with a planned action, particularly when it involves taking a risk or making a commitment. When someone experiences "cold feet," they typically feel a sudden loss of nerve or confidence, leading them to hesitate, hesitate, or retreat from their initial intentions.
The "cold" in this expression symbolizes the chilling sensation or lack of warmth associated with fear or doubt. Just as cold temperatures cause one's feet to feel numb and less responsive, the metaphor suggests that fear or uncertainty can paralyze a person, making it difficult for them to move forward.
The term "cold feet" is commonly encountered in situations involving serious decision-making, such as getting married, starting a new job, pursuing an important project, or making a significant investment. It highlights the inner struggle between the desire for change and the fear of the unknown, often arising from a concern of potential negative outcomes.
The phrase is often used colloquially to convey a person's doubts or anxieties about proceeding with a particular course of action. It can describe a fleeting feeling or a more prolonged state of unease that arises when faced with a daunting challenge or the prospect of unpredictable consequences.
Common Misspellings for COLD FEET
- xold feet
- vold feet
- fold feet
- dold feet
- cild feet
- ckld feet
- clld feet
- cpld feet
- c0ld feet
- c9ld feet
- cokd feet
- copd feet
- cood feet
- cols feet
- colx feet
- colc feet
- colf feet
- colr feet
- cole feet
Etymology of COLD FEET
The etymology of the phrase "cold feet" dates back to the early 20th century, specifically to the United States and the world of entertainment, particularly show business. It originated in the context of vaudeville acts, where dancers, actors, and performers often had to wait backstage before their turn. To combat anxiety and nervousness before their performances, they would stand on cold metal grates, or "green rooms", to cool down and calm their nerves. As a result, this practice became known as "getting cold feet". It was believed that the colder temperature would ease their apprehensions. Over time, the phrase expanded beyond its theatrical origins and became a more general expression for apprehension, nervousness, or doubt before an important event or decision.
Idioms with the word COLD FEET
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get cold feet
The idiom "get cold feet" means to suddenly lose one's courage or confidence in doing something, usually before a significant event or decision. It implies becoming anxious, hesitant, or reluctant to proceed with a plan or action. It originated from the physical sensation of cold feet, often associated with fear or nervousness.
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get/have cold feet
The idiom "get/have cold feet" means to suddenly feel afraid, anxious, or uncertain about a planned action or commitment, often resulting in hesitation or a decision to back out.
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have (or get) cold feet
The idiom "have (or get) cold feet" means to suddenly become nervous, anxious, or hesitant about a particular decision or course of action, especially before a significant event or undertaking. It suggests a loss of confidence or motivation in moving forward with something previously planned or expected.
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have cold feet
The idiom "have cold feet" means to feel uncertain or hesitant about taking a particular action, usually due to anxiety, fear, or lack of confidence.
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cold feet
The idiom "cold feet" refers to a feeling of nervousness or reluctance about completing a task or taking a particular action. It is often used to describe a sudden loss of confidence or hesitation before carrying out a planned action.
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cold feet, get
The idiom "cold feet, get" refers to feeling nervous or hesitant about taking a particular course of action, especially at the last minute. It can also refer to a sudden lack of confidence or determination to follow through with a plan.
Similar spelling words for COLD FEET
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