Ice queen
Meaning
A woman who is perceived as emotionally cold, aloof, and unapproachable, often despite her beauty or status.
Origin
The archetype of a powerful, beautiful, yet unfeeling woman has ancient roots, appearing in folklore and mythology across many cultures. However, the specific phrase "ice queen" gained significant traction in the 20th century, likely popularized by the enduring influence of Hans Christian Andersen's 1844 fairy tale, "The Snow Queen." In this tale, a dazzling, regal figure kidnaps a young boy, her heart and realm made of ice, embodying absolute coldness and indifference. This potent imagery of a woman whose beauty belies an utter lack of warmth or compassion resonated deeply, eventually solidifying "ice queen" as a widely understood idiom for any woman exhibiting such a detached, imperious demeanor.
Examples
- Despite her incredible talent, the new manager was often called an ice queen because she rarely smiled or engaged in casual conversation.
- He tried to win her over for months, but she remained an ice queen, seemingly impervious to his romantic gestures.