STOP COLD Meaning and
Definition
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The term "stop cold" is an idiomatic expression that is typically used in informal conversations to describe a sudden or immediate halt in an activity or process. It conveys the idea of a complete and abrupt cessation, often without any warning or preparation.
In various contexts, "stop cold" can refer to different situations. For instance, it can depict a sudden interruption of physical movement or progress, such as when a person or an object comes to an immediate standstill. It can be used to describe the abrupt termination of a thought process, where someone abruptly ceases their train of thought or loses their ability to continue with a particular line of thinking. Additionally, "stop cold" can describe an unexpected cessation of an action or behavior, implying that someone suddenly stops engaging in a certain activity or habit.
The phrase derives its power from the concept of suddenness and completion. It invokes the imagery of something coming to an abrupt, complete stop—as though it has been frozen in time. The use of the word "cold" emphasizes this suddenness and adds a sense of finality to the action or process being described. Overall, "stop cold" captures the notion of an immediate and complete halt in a way that conveys a sense of surprise or unexpectedness.
Common Misspellings for STOP COLD
- atop cold
- ztop cold
- xtop cold
- dtop cold
- etop cold
- wtop cold
- srop cold
- sfop cold
- sgop cold
- syop cold
- s6op cold
- s5op cold
- stip cold
- stkp cold
- stlp cold
- stpp cold
- st0p cold
- st9p cold
- stoo cold
- stol cold
Etymology of STOP COLD
The phrase "stop cold" does not have a specific etymology of its own. However, it can be understood by analyzing the origins of the individual words it is composed of.
1. Stop: The word "stop" originated from the Old English word "stoppian" which translates to "to stop up, close, block". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "stuppōną" meaning "to block, seal". Over time, it evolved to its current form with the same meaning of bringing something to a halt.
2. Cold: The word "cold" originated from the Old English word "cald" which means "moderately cold; having a relatively low temperature". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "kaldaz" meaning "cold".
Idioms with the word STOP COLD
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stop cold
To stop abruptly or suddenly; to come to an immediate halt.
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