I really can't stay
(Baby, it's cold outside)
I've got to go away
(Baby, it's cold outside)

This evening has been
(Been hopin' that you'd drop in)
So very nice
(I'll hold your hands, they're just like ice)

My mother will start to worry
(Beautiful, what's your hurry?)
My father will be pacing the floor
(Listen to that fireplace roar)

So really, I'd better scurry
(Beautiful, please don't hurry)
But maybe just a half a drink more
(Put some records on while I pour)

The neighbors might think
(Baby, it's bad out there)
Lyle, what's in this drink?
(No cabs to be had out there)

I wish I knew how
(Your eyes are like starlight now)
To break this spell
(Now I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell)
I oughta say 'no, no, no sir'
(You mind if I move in closer?)
At least I'm gonna say that I tried
(What's the sense in hurting my pride?)

I really can't stay
(Baby, don't hold out)
Baby, it's cold outside

I really must go
(But baby, it's cold outside)
Now, the answer is no
(I said it's cold out there)

The welcome has been
(How lucky that you dropped in)
So nice and warm
(Look out the window at that storm)

My sister will be suspicious
(But gosh, your lips look delicious)
My brother will be there at the door
(Waves upon a tropical shore)

My maiden aunt's mind is vicious
(Gosh, your lips look delicious)
Well, maybe just a cigarette more
(Never such a blizzard before)
I've got to get home
(Baby, you'll freeze out there)
Say, lend me your comb
(It's up to your knees out there)

You've really been grand
(I thrill when you touch my hand)
But don't you see?
(How can you, you do this thing to me?)

There's bound to be talk tomorrow
(Well, think of my lifelong sorrow)
At least there will be plenty implied
(If you caught pneumonia and died)

Oh, I really can't stay
(Get over that hold out)
Baby, it's cold outside
Baby, it's cold outside