cool hands
Steady under pressure
Cool hands are hands that are calm and steady under pressure.
The phrase often appears as a cool hand, describing someone who remains composed in tense situations—a surgeon, a poker player, a crisis negotiator.
She's a cool hand in emergencies.
The quality suggests emotional detachment that enables precise action when others might panic.
- steadyFixed, not fluctuating
- unflappableImpossible to disturb
- nerves of steelExceptional calm under pressure
- poisedCalm and controlled
- under pressureExperiencing duress or stress
deft · serene · placid · skillful · calm · nimble · tranquil · expert · adroit · poker · poker face · card table · meticulous · precise · cards · pickpocket · surgeon · imperturbable