SKIP TO CONTENT

cold turkey

/ˌkoʊl(d) ˌˈtʌrki/
IPA guide

Other forms: cold turkeys

Definitions of cold turkey
  1. noun
    complete and abrupt withdrawal of all addictive drugs or anything else on which you have become dependent
    “he quit smoking cold turkey
    “she quit her job cold turkey
    see moresee less
    type of:
    drug withdrawal, withdrawal
    the termination of drug taking
  2. noun
    a blunt expression of views
    “I told him cold turkey
    see moresee less
    type of:
    expression, verbal expression, verbalism
    the communication (in speech or writing) of your beliefs or opinions
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘cold turkey'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family