why is it called cold turkey when you are in withdrawal?

Answer 1

If you stop masturbating, would it be cold jerkey?

Answer 2

"Cold turkey" is a slang expression describing the actions of a person who gives up a habit or addiction all at once, rather than gradually (easing the process through tapering off or using supplemental medication). This is, of course, the cheapest method of quitting any habit, and its supposed advantage is that by not actively using supplemental methods, the person avoids thinking about the habit and therefore, the temptation.

The etymology derives from the phrase talk turkey, in which someone deals matter-of-factly with a subject[1]. Some, however, believe the derivation is from the comparison of a cold turkey carcass and the state of a withdrawing addict — most notably, the cold sweats and goose bumps. It is often preceded by the verb "to go," as in "going cold turkey."

Sudden withdrawal from drugs such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates can be extremely dangerous, leading to potentially fatal seizures. In long-time alcoholics, going cold turkey can cause life-threatening delirium tremens and thus is not an appropriate method for breaking an alcohol addiction. Although many people disagree, it has been said that nicotine cessation can be the most difficult form of cold turkey, more difficult than even heroin or cocaine. [1]

In the case of most other drugs, going cold turkey may be extremely unpleasant, but not life-threateningly dangerous. Terminating medication that has been prescribed, however, may be dangerous.

Answer 3

The etymology derives from the phrase talk turkey, in which someone deals matter-of-factly with a subject[1]. Some, however, believe the derivation is from the comparison of a cold turkey carcass and the state of a withdrawing addict — most notably, the cold sweats and goose bumps. It is often preceded by the verb "to go," as in "going cold turkey."

Answer 4

It originally meant "without preparation," referring to the ease of making a dish of cold turkey. In 1922, the expression acquired its darker connotation related to drug withdrawal.
Actually, our feathered friends have been the inspiration for many descriptive idioms, not always flattering to fowl. Here are some graphic examples: the ghost-inspired or cold-triggered phenomenon of goose bumps; the painful goose egg (bump) on the head; chicken feed, for a measly sum of money; and chicken livered, a synonym for cowardly. It seems there's plenty of fowl language in use to depict humans who are not at their best.

Answer 5

I only looked to see myself what it was can't beleive it is so bad about smoking being the worst one well thumbs up for that one

Answer 6

I gues coz cold turkey make you wanna puke and so does withdrawal >

Answer 7

because u get goose pimples that much u look like a turkey taken out of the freezer


i know ive been there and im not proud of it

Answer 8

http://www.idiomsite.com/.................you should find this, and others there good luck!......if not, you'll find out the origins of others,...I believe it came from heroin addicts, looking like a 'cold turkey' after kicking the demons without any help..

Answer 9

apart for clucking you look like a dithering featherless turkey,O ne minute your hot then cold its horrible wouldnt wish it on anyone

Answer 10

Because that is what you look like... white, cold, goose bumps, horrible to touch etc.

Answer 11

its the goose pimple appearance of the turkeys skin