DOWN COLD Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "down cold" is an idiomatic expression that can be defined as having complete mastery or thorough understanding of a particular skill, concept, or topic. It refers to having knowledge or expertise on a subject to a high degree, often implying that one has achieved a level of expertise where they are able to perform effortlessly or flawlessly.
When someone knows something "down cold," it means they have acquired a deep understanding through extensive study, practice, or experience. It suggests that they possess a comprehensive grasp of the details, intricacies, and nuances associated with a particular subject matter or task. This level of proficiency often results in a person being highly knowledgeable and confident, allowing them to perform with ease and precision.
The term "down cold" can be commonly used in various contexts. For instance, a surgeon who knows a surgical technique "down cold" implies that they have mastered the procedure and can perform it flawlessly. Similarly, an actor who has memorized their lines "down cold" has an extensive understanding and can deliver their lines with perfection. This expression can also convey a sense of reliability and trustworthiness, as someone who knows a topic "down cold" is generally regarded as an authoritative source of information.
In summary, "down cold" reflects a state of complete mastery, extensive knowledge, and effortless execution of a particular skill, task, or subject. It portrays a high level of expertise and understanding achieved through dedicated learning or experience.
Common Misspellings for DOWN COLD
- sown cold
- xown cold
- cown cold
- fown cold
- rown cold
- eown cold
- diwn cold
- dkwn cold
- dlwn cold
- dpwn cold
- d0wn cold
- d9wn cold
- doqn cold
- doan cold
- dosn cold
- doen cold
- do3n cold
- do2n cold
- dowb cold
- dowm cold
Etymology of DOWN COLD
The phrase "down cold" originated in American English and has its roots in the early 20th century. It combines the meanings of "down" and "cold" to convey mastery, knowledge, or familiarity with something.
The term "down" has various uses and meanings in English, including being thoroughly knowledgeable about a subject or situation. It can be traced back to the 16th century, originating from the Middle English "doun" and Old English "dūne", which meant "from a higher to a lower position" or "into a lower position". Over time, it evolved to convey a sense of completeness or thoroughness when referring to knowledge or comprehension.
The word "cold", in this context, means having complete control or understanding of something. It has been used since the late 19th century as slang, primarily in American English.
Idioms with the word DOWN COLD
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have (something) down cold
To have something down cold means to have mastered or perfected a skill or task to a very high level of proficiency.
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down cold
To know or understand something thoroughly and completely, often to the point of being able to recall it instantly and effortlessly.
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down cold, have
To have something down cold means to have mastered it completely or have a thorough understanding of it. It implies being very familiar and knowledgeable about a particular subject or skill.
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