Why Is It Called Quitting Cold Turkey? A Deep Dive into the Origins of the Phrase

If you’ve ever talked to someone about giving up something or given up a habit on your own, you’ve undoubtedly heard the phrase “cold turkey.” “To give up a vice completely, without any ifs, ands, or buts, is to quit smoking cigarettes, binge-watching Netflix, or eating a lot of Oreos. With New Year’s behind us, the phrase may be cropping up more and more. But where does it come from?.

Its origins can be traced back to 18th and 19th century America. Like the modern term “flapping your gums,” the phrase “talking turkey” originally meant dishonest speech, according to historical accounts. ” .

An 1837 article from the Niles Weekly Register offered a folkloric retelling of the phrase’s origins:

An Indian and a white man went shooting, and the results of their partnership were a wild turkey and a crow after a day of work. The white man divided the spoils in the traditional way of making a deal with the Indian, saying, “Now, Wampum, you may have your choice: you take the crow, and I’ll take the turkey; or, if you’d rather, I’ll take the turkey and you take the crow.” After giving the kind suggestion some thought, Wampum said, “Yuck! You don’t talk turkey to me. ” ’.

Based on these and other appearances, “talking turkey” seems to have been a euphemism for dishonest or otherwise superficial, pleasant talk. However, the phrase appeared to have acquired a new meaning by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, one that was more strongly connected to being honest and direct.

“Talking turkey” came to mean getting down to business, ignoring the frippery and sides of polite conversation, and concentrating on the crucial issues. This direct communication style was first referred to in print at the start of the 20th century as “cold.”

Ever wondered why we say “quit cold turkey” when we abruptly stop a habit or addiction? It’s a curious phrase, conjuring images of raw poultry and leaving us scratching our heads. Well, buckle up, word nerds, because we’re about to embark on a journey through history to uncover the true origins of this peculiar expression.

The Early Days: Talking Turkey and Cold Truths

In the 18th and 19th centuries, “talking turkey” meant being straightforward and honest—that is, slicing through the surface and getting to the core of the issue. This is where the phrase “cold turkey” originated. The expression “talking turkey” originated in the early 1800s and denoted being straightforward and truthful.

“Talking turkey” had a new meaning by the late 19th and early 20th centuries: it now meant discussing issues openly and honestly, without glossing over or avoiding issues. This change in meaning made it possible for “cold turkey” to become popular as it is today.

The Rise of “Cold Turkey”

The term “cold turkey” was first used in 1921 to describe the sudden withdrawal symptoms that people with substance abuse disorders experienced when trying to kick their habit. This usage probably originated from the idea that the word “cold” meant to be direct and unambiguous, much like the sudden nature of quitting cold turkey.

Theories and Speculations: Goosebumps and Refrigerated Poultry

While the exact origin of “cold turkey” remains shrouded in some mystery, several theories have emerged to explain the connection between the phrase and the bird itself.

One theory suggests that the phrase originated from the physical symptoms of withdrawal, particularly the goosebumps or “cold sweats” experienced by individuals going through detox This theory aligns with the description of a “cold turkey” as having “cold, clammy, and rigid skin,” similar to that of a plucked and refrigerated turkey

According to a different theory, the phrase was inspired by the sharp contrast between the sudden, frigid reality of withdrawal and the cozy, cozy feeling of engaging in a habit. This reading is consistent with the metaphorical usage of the word “cold” to denote something abrupt, harsh, or unpleasant.

Beyond the Etymology: Understanding the Impact

Regardless of its exact origin, the phrase “cold turkey” has become a powerful metaphor for the challenges and discomfort associated with abruptly quitting an addiction or habit. It vividly captures the initial shock, discomfort, and determination required to break free from ingrained patterns of behavior.

The Takeaway: A Journey Through History and Language

The journey to uncover the origins of “cold turkey” has led us through a fascinating exploration of language evolution, historical context, and the human experience of addiction While the exact moment of its birth remains elusive, the phrase continues to serve as a potent reminder of the complexities and challenges associated with breaking free from addictive behaviors

So, the next time you hear someone say they’re quitting cold turkey, remember the rich history behind this curious phrase and the powerful message it conveys. It’s a testament to the human capacity for change and the ongoing struggle against addiction.

Additional Notes:

  • The phrase “cold turkey” is often used in a humorous or lighthearted way, even when referring to serious addictions.
  • The term has also been adopted in other contexts, such as quitting smoking, dieting, or breaking bad habits.
  • The use of “cold turkey” highlights the importance of seeking professional help and support when attempting to overcome addiction.

The Daily Colonist, British Columbia, 1921:

‘Perhaps the most pitiful figures who have appeared before Dr. Carleton Simon … are those who voluntarily surrender themselves. When they go before him, that are given what is called the ‘cold turkey‘ treatment. ’.

The Des Moines Daily News, May 1914:

“I’ve heard [Reverend Billy] Sunday preach his ‘Booze’ sermon, and believe me, that prick is capable of making tears roll down his cheeks. ” And furthermore he talks ‘cold turkey‘. You know what I mean – calls a spade a spade. ”.

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