PhrasesHub

Cold as any stone

    Definitions

      • very cold temperature
        To describe a temperature that is extremely low and unpleasantly cold, often used when referring to weather or objects that are cold to the touch

      • unfeeling or emotionless
        To describe someone who is emotionally distant, unresponsive, or unsympathetic towards others, often used in a negative context to imply a lack of warmth or compassion

      • unchanging or unyielding
        To describe a situation or circumstance that remains unchanged or unchallenged, often used in a negative context to convey a sense of stagnation or resistance to change

    Examples of Cold as any stone


      Conclusion

      Overall, the idiom "cold as any stone" is used to convey a sense of extreme coldness, both in terms of temperature and emotion. It can be used in a literal sense to describe a very low temperature, or in a figurative sense to describe someone who is emotionally distant or unfeeling. It can also be used to describe a situation or circumstance that is unchanging or unyielding.

      Origin of "Cold as any stone"

      The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ancient times, when stones were often used to signify coldness and hardness. In Greek and Roman mythology, the god of the underworld, Hades, was often depicted as having a heart of stone, representing his cold and emotionless nature. This idea of stones being associated with coldness and hardness has carried over into modern usage of the idiom.

      Examples of the idiom can be found in literature and poetry throughout history. In Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," the character Juliet says, "O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright! It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night like a rich jewel in an Ethiope's ear; beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear. So shows a snowy dove trooping with crows, as yonder lady o'er her fellows shows. The measure done, I'll watch her place of stand, and, touching hers, make blessèd my rude hand. Did my heart love till now? Forswear it, sight! For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night." This passage uses the idiom to describe the beauty and purity of Juliet's love.

      In conclusion, the idiom "cold as any stone" has been used for centuries to convey a sense of extreme coldness and hardness. Its origins can be traced back to ancient mythology and it continues to be used in literature and everyday language to describe both physical and emotional states.