Cold
UK /["/kəʊld/"]/US /["/kəʊld/"]/
Definition
having a lower than usual temperature; having a temperature lower than the human body
In simple words: Having a low temperature; not warm.
Examples
- The water is too cold to swim in right now.
- I can feel the cold wind blowing through the trees.
- She gave me a cold stare when I walked in late.
- It's a cold day; make sure to wear your warmest coat.
- He caught a cold last week and stayed home from school.
Usage notes
Use 'cold' to describe weather, objects, or emotions. Avoid using in a formal setting when describing someone's demeanor or mannerisms.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'cold as ice' — icy conditions remind us of very low temperatures.
Collocations
- be
- feel
- look
- extremely
- fairly
- very
- be
- get
- go
- stone
Synonyms
- chilly
- cool
- frigid
- icy
- frosty
Antonyms
- hot
- warm
- boiling
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'cool', which implies a moderate temperature.
- Used 'cold' to describe mild weather when 'cool' would be more appropriate.
- Incorrectly assuming 'cold' applies only to temperature, overlooking emotional contexts.