cold - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cold Word Meanings
- having a low temperature
- not friendly or emotional
- lacking warmth or heat
cold Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cold Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəʊld/
US
/koʊld/
cold Word Etymology
cold = 'cool' + -ed; Historical origin: Old English 'cald' → Germanic → Latin. Memory image: Imagine a chilly winter day where you can see your breath in the air.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Outside, I step into a sudden breeze and feel it move across my neck. I pull my scarf tighter, shift my weight, and adjust my jacket as the cold presses in. I keep walking, my breath turning to steam in the air, and the sensation of cold rises as a quiet test of will. The chill clings, a subtle reminder that warmth is something you earn by moving, by adjusting, and by choosing to keep going.
Real Context
Cold describes both temperature and mood, and it can function as an adjective or as a noun in phrases like cold weather, a cold day, or a cold (illness). As an adjective, cold emphasizes low temperature or lack of warmth: a cold wind, cold hands, a cold drink. It can also describe a person’s demeanor when they seem unfriendly or emotionally distant: a cold reply or a cold stare. When used for people, be aware of nuance: cold may imply deliberate indifference rather than shyness. The word has connections to cool in historical language and reflects how early speakers categorized heat and cold. A memorable image is breath visible in icy air on a winter day.
Usage Reminders
- Cold means low temperature; not to be confused with 'cool' which can be milder or fashionable.
- Use 'cold' before nouns: cold weather, cold water, cold hands.
- For illness, use the noun 'a cold'.
- Describe demeanor with 'cold' or 'cold-hearted' but not for general kindness.
- In phrases like 'get cold feet' or 'cold turkey', these are idioms with specific meanings.
Common Misconceptions
- Cold only describes temperature, not emotions.
- Cool and cold always mean the same level of chill.
- A cold always refers to illness; otherwise it’s just cold weather.
- You should say 'cool' in all cold situations to sound natural.
- Cold and chilly are interchangeable in every context.
Thinking Differences
Think of cold as a broad spectrum: literal temperature, then emotional tone, then health. English uses many fixed phrases and idioms that hinge on cold, so learners often mix temperature with mood or misinterpret idioms like get cold feet.
Learning Tips
- Distinguish temperature (weather, objects) from mood (cold attitude).
- Learn 'a cold' for illness and 'the cold' for weather.
- Practice common collocations: cold weather, cold water, cold hands.
- Differentiate 'cold' from 'cool' in emotional/attitude contexts.
- Use idioms in context to avoid misinterpretation (e. g., cold shoulder, get cold feet).
- Listen for pronunciation: /koʊld/ and related phrases.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'cold'?
A.Hot
B.Warm
C.Wet
D.Dry
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'cold' typically used in a sentence?
A.The sun is cold
B.She wore a cold jacket
C.He drank a cold coffee
D.They played in the cold snow
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'cold'?
A.Breezy
B.Sunny
C.Humid
D.Freezing
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'cold'?
A.Scorching
B.Icy
C.Chilly
D.Frigid
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'cold'?
A.Ordering a drink at a cafe
B.Talking about the weather in winter
C.Describing a sunny day
D.Discussing a book
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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