Cold sweat

Meaning

The idiom "cold sweat" refers to a sudden feeling of fear, anxiety, or stress that causes one's skin to become clammy and cold with sweat, even though they are not physically exerting themselves. It can also refer to a situation or event that instills such feelings in a person.

Usage

• I had a cold sweat when I saw my boss walk into the room unexpectedly.
• The thought of public speaking gives me a cold sweat every time.
• The sudden realization that I forgot my wallet caused a cold sweat to break out on my forehead.
• When I heard the news, I had a cold sweat and couldn't stop shaking for hours.
• The pressure of the upcoming exam gave me a cold sweat and made me feel sick to my stomach.

Roots and History

The idiom "cold sweat" first appeared in print in the 19th century. Its exact origins are unclear, but it is believed to have originated from the physical sensation of having a cold sweat when one is feeling anxious or stressed. Over time, the idiom has come to refer more broadly to any situation or event that causes such feelings in a person.

Synonyms in English

• Panic attack
• Anxiety attack
• Heart attack
• Stress-induced illness
• Fear response

Synonyms in other languages

• In French, the idiom is "froid de terre" which translates to "cold sweat".
• In German, the idiom is "Kalter Schweiß" which also means "cold sweat".
• In Spanish, the idiom is "sudor frio" which translates to "cold sweat".
• In Italian, the idiom is "pioggia bianca" which means "white rain" and refers to a sudden feeling of anxiety or stress.
• In Japanese, the idiom is "維荒心" which translates to "fatigue" and refers to a state of exhaustion and anxiety caused by prolonged stress or overwork.

Similar Idioms

• carry out

• cut and thrust

• chip on shoulder