the silent treatment
A punishment in which one completely ignores or refuses to speak to someone. I didn't think he would be so offended by my joke, but he's been giving me the silent treatment for days now.
the silent treatment
a stubborn refusal to talk to someone, especially after a recent argument or disagreement. 2000 Independent Since the complaint, Ms Thomas , who has worked for the City police since 1994 , claims she has been given the silent treatment.