cold turkey Definition
- 1the abrupt and complete cessation of taking an addictive drug or substance, resulting in often severe withdrawal symptoms
- 2the sudden and complete cessation of a habit or activity
Using cold turkey: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cold turkey" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
After years of smoking, he quit cold turkey and suffered from intense cravings and irritability.
Example
She decided to stop drinking coffee cold turkey, but experienced headaches and fatigue for several days.
Example
I tried to quit social media cold turkey, but found it difficult to stay away.
cold turkey Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for cold turkey
Phrases with cold turkey
to suddenly and completely stop taking an addictive drug or substance, or to suddenly and completely stop a habit or activity
Example
He decided to go cold turkey on his gambling addiction and hasn't placed a bet since.
to suddenly and completely stop taking an addictive drug or substance, or to suddenly and completely stop a habit or activity
Example
She quit smoking cold turkey and hasn't had a cigarette in months.
a person who is considered weak or cowardly
Example
Don't be such a turkey and face your fears!
Summary: cold turkey in Brief
'Cold turkey' [koʊld ˈtɜrki] refers to the abrupt and complete cessation of taking an addictive drug or substance, or stopping a habit or activity. It can result in severe withdrawal symptoms, such as cravings and irritability. The phrase 'go cold turkey' means to suddenly and completely stop a habit or activity, while 'turkey' can refer to a person who is considered weak or cowardly.
