phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The Phrase Finder
Phrases, Sayings and Idioms Home > Discussion Forum
A Phrase A Week - Facebook Group & Follow aphraseaweek on Twitter

What's the origin?

Posted by Vincent Jackson on January 30, 2000

Does anyone actually know the origin of the popular phrase "Stop Cold Turkey"? I know it is used to mean a sudden and complete stop, as to "Stop smoking cold turkey" or to "Stop eating red meat cold turkey," but I don't know how and when it was started. Any guesses?