15 winter idioms & expressions
English vocabulary for the sparkling winter season.
Learn English winter idioms
Step into the enchanting world of winter language with our captivating collection of 15 winter idioms and expressions. These idioms enable you to focus on developing your English vocabulary with a seasonal twist.
Level up your English language skills and add a dash of winter magic to your conversations. Grab your favourite blanket, a cup of cocoa, and join us as we explore the delightful ways that language captures the spirit of the season.
winter wonderland
Meaning
a picturesque and enchanting winter scene.
Example
As the first snowflakes fell, the entire town transformed into a winter wonderland, with rooftops and trees covered in a blanket of snow.
winter is long in the tooth
Meaning
refers to the perception that winter seems to last a very long time.
Example
By the end of February, everyone in the neighbourhood felt that winter was long in the tooth, eagerly anticipating the arrival of spring.
in the dead of winter
Meaning
in the middle or coldest part of winter.
Example
The expedition was planned to take place in the dead of winter when the landscape would be at its most challenging and beautiful.
break the ice
Meaning
to initiate social interaction or conversation in a new setting.
Example
The team-building exercises were designed to break the ice and foster a sense of camaraderie among the new employees.
out in the cold
Meaning
to be excluded or neglected from a group or activity.
Example
After missing several team meetings, Tom felt like he was out in the cold when it came to decision-making.
frosty reception (icy reception)
Meaning
an unfriendly or unwelcoming reception.
Example
When she joined the new team, she expected a warm welcome but instead received a frosty reception from her colleagues.
walking on thin ice (skating on thin ice)
Meaning
engaging in a risky or precarious situation.
Example
Mark was walking on thin ice when he brought up a controversial topic at the family dinner and tensions rose very quickly.
winter is coming
Meaning
a warning or sense of impending difficulty.
Example
The economic indicators suggested that tough times were ahead, and many business leaders felt that winter is coming.
cold feet
Meaning
to get nervous or hesitant about a decision or action.
Example
On the morning of the big presentation, she started to get cold feet, but she pushed through and delivered an excellent speech.
winter blues
Meaning
refers to feelings of sadness or depression during the winter months.
Example
Some people experience the winter blues and find it challenging to stay upbeat during the darker and colder days.
snowball effect
Meaning
A situation in which something grows or escalates rapidly.
Example
The positive feedback from our clients had a snowball effect on our business, leading to a significant increase in orders.
snowed under
Meaning
to be overwhelmed or burdened with a large amount of work.
Example
After the holiday break, I returned to the office only to find myself snowed under and had to work extra hours to catch up on pending tasks.
bundle up and brave the elements
Meaning
to dress warmly and face harsh weather conditions.
Example
Despite the freezing temperatures, the dedicated hikers decided to bundle up and brave the elements to reach the mountain summit.
cold hands, warm heart
Meaning
refers to the idea that someone who has cold hands (or someone who does not outwardly show their feelings) may actually be kind, thoughtful and warm-hearted.
Example
You might feel a chill when you shake Jake’s hand, but don’t be fooled – it’s a classic case of cold hands, warm heart, as he’s one of the kindest people you’ll ever meet.
Although our CEO seems quite reserved when you first meet, we’ve discovered a case of cold hands, warm heart, as he secretly supports various charitable causes.
as snug as a bug in a rug
Meaning
to be warm and comfortable, especially in a cosy environment.
Example
Curled up by the fireplace with a good book, she felt as snug as a bug in a rug on the chilly winter evening.
Start using winter idioms and expressions
As we wrap up our linguistic journey through the winter wonderland of idioms, we hope you’ve found these expressions not only entertaining, but also a valuable collection for improving your English language skills further. Stay warm, keep talking, and let the magic of winter language continue to unfold in your daily conversations!
We also have a collection idioms for the other seasons and invite you to take a look.
We wish you an enjoyable and relaxing winter and hope you enjoy the festive season.
Are you looking for an English course?
Taking an English course is a great way to develop your language skills. Our qualified English trainers give support and feedback to help you develop. Please contact us to get started and we’re happy to help.