cold

Short definition: The word cold describes something with low temperature, the feeling of lacking warmth, or a condition like a mild illness, and it can also describe behavior that feels distant, unemotional, or unfriendly depending on context.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word cold? This word is extremely common in everyday English and can describe temperature, health, emotions, and even behavior. Cold does not only mean low temperature, but also a lack of warmth in feelings, atmosphere, or reactions. You will hear it in daily conversations, weather reports, medical contexts, and casual expressions. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with long definitions and realistic examples.

Forms: cold (adjective, noun)
Related: coldness n., chilly adj., cool adj.
Syllable: cold

1. (Adjective) Having a low temperature or lacking heat, especially compared to the human body.

   Cold describes something that has a low temperature and feels chilly or uncomfortable to touch. It is commonly used for weather, water, air, objects, and surfaces. What feels cold can depend on context, climate, and personal tolerance. This is the most literal and physical meaning of the word.

   The water was so cold that he jumped back immediately after touching it.
   It felt cold outside even though the sun was shining.
   She wrapped herself in a jacket because the room was still cold.

   Synonyms: chilly, freezing, cool, icy, frosty, coldish, nippy, wintry, frigid, biting, crisp, ice-cold
   Antonyms: hot, warm, heated, boiling, mild, toasty, balmy, cozy, lukewarm, scorching, burning, tropical

2. (Adjective) Lacking warmth in emotion, friendliness, or personal interaction.

   Cold can describe how a person behaves when they seem distant, unfriendly, or emotionally closed off. Someone who is cold may avoid showing care, affection, or empathy. This meaning is often used in social and relationship contexts. It suggests emotional distance rather than physical temperature.

   His reply sounded cold and distant, even though the message was polite.
   She became cold toward him after the argument.
   The manager’s cold tone made everyone uncomfortable.

   Synonyms: distant, unfriendly, aloof, detached, unfeeling, indifferent, icy, reserved, impersonal, hard, cool, unsympathetic
   Antonyms: warm, friendly, kind, caring, affectionate, open, welcoming, compassionate, gentle, emotional, empathetic, supportive

3. (Noun) A common illness that affects the nose and throat, causing sneezing and congestion.

   A cold is a mild viral illness that affects the upper respiratory system. Symptoms often include a runny nose, sore throat, coughing, and sneezing. It is very common and usually not serious, but it can feel uncomfortable. People often catch a cold more easily in colder seasons.

   He stayed home from work because he had a bad cold.
   She caught a cold after traveling in crowded public transport.
   A simple cold can still make you feel tired for several days.

   Synonyms: common cold, viral infection, mild illness, sniffles, head cold, respiratory infection, seasonal illness, flu-like sickness, nasal infection, throat infection, minor sickness, upper respiratory illness
   Antonyms: good health, wellness, fitness, recovery, strong immunity, healthy condition, full health, well-being, physical strength, vitality, robust health, sound condition

4. (Adjective) Calm, logical, and not influenced by emotion or excitement.

   Cold can describe thinking or decision-making that is purely logical and unemotional. In this sense, it suggests objectivity and control rather than cruelty. People may praise cold thinking in serious situations where emotions could interfere. However, it can also sound slightly negative depending on context.

   She made a cold decision based on facts, not feelings.
   His cold analysis helped the team avoid a costly mistake.
   In emergencies, staying cold can save lives.

   Synonyms: logical, rational, objective, unemotional, analytical, detached, clear-headed, calculated, calm, realistic, level-headed, reasoned
   Antonyms: emotional, impulsive, passionate, irrational, reactive, sentimental, heated, excited, dramatic, sensitive, expressive, emotional-driven