Send somebody to Coventry

usgb
phrase

To ignore someone intentionally or avoid speaking to them as a way to punish them.

After he lied about his grades, his parents sent him to Coventry and wouldn't talk for a week.
Visual representation of "send somebody to Coventry" - To ignore someone intentionally or avoid speaking to them as a way to punish them

Often appears as...

  • decide to send someone to coventry
  • been sent to coventry

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "send somebody to Coventry"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Social Punishment

This phrase means to socially isolate someone as a form of punishment without any physical actions.

Illustration for Social Punishment
She spread rumors, so the class sent her to Coventry.
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British Origin

The phrase is uniquely British, from a historical event during the English Civil War.

Illustration for British Origin
The new student didn't understand when he was sent to Coventry, since he grew up in Canada.
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Silent Treatment

It's an informal way to refer to the act of giving someone the silent treatment.

Illustration for Silent Treatment
After the argument, Lara sent her boyfriend to Coventry.
Visual representation of the word "Send somebody to Coventry"

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