Definition of the word cool off

The expression "cool off" literally means to reduce one's temperature or to become less excited or angry. The origin of the phrase can be traced back to the late 19th century, when "cool" was used as a rejoinder to "hot" in relation to climatic conditions. As people started using "cool" to describe a lukewarm drink or a pleasant breeze, it evolved into a figurative term for calming down or relaxing. The expression "cool off" gained popularity during the late 1800s, particularly in American English, with the growing importance of sports and athletics. In the context of sports, "cool off" initially referred to the practice of jogging or warming down to bring down the body temperature after an intense workout or game. However, over time, the term came to signify the need to calm one's nerves or emotions. In summary, "cool off" is a phrasal verb that originated as a temperature-related expression and evolved into a figurative term for addressing overheated or emotionally heated situations. The expression has a varied history that reflects how language evolves and adapts to reflect the nuances of human experience. Sources: 1. "Cool off" entry on etymonline.com 2. "Cool Off" entry on Collins English Dictionary 3. Schneider, Edward F. (1995). "Origin and Evolution of Cool (1) and Cool (2)" The American Speech, Vol. 70, No. 4 (WINTER 1995), pp. 350-356, https://www.jstor.org/stable/4588316?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents.