Have a heart of stone

usgb
phrase

To be unfeeling, cruel or insensitive.

Even after her friend started crying, she didn't apologize. She really has a heart of stone.
Visual representation of "have a heart of stone" - To be unfeeling, cruel or insensitive.

Often appears as...

  • she has a heart of stone
  • he has a heart of stone

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "have a heart of stone"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Weight

The phrase carries negative emotions and indicates harshness in someone's personality.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
He dismissed their pleas without remorse; he must have a heart of stone.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Use

It's not literal — nobody has an actual stone heart. It's a metaphor for lack of empathy.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
I can't believe she just laughed at his misfortune. She has a heart of stone.
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Character Assessment

Used to judge character, often indicating surprise or disapproval at one's cold behavior.

Illustration for Character Assessment
Even though he's rich, he never donates to charity. He has a heart of stone.
Visual representation of the word "Have a heart of stone"

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