expression, godan verb (-u)
depend on someone for food and lodging
Idiomatic expression literally meaning 'to eat cold rice', implying living off someone else's hospitality, often with a sense of being a burden or in a dependent position.
失業中は兄の家で冷や飯を食っていた。
While unemployed, I depended on my older brother for food and lodging.
expression, godan verb (-u)
be treated coldly; be kept in a low position
Figurative extension of the 'cold rice' image: being given the cold shoulder, treated as unimportant, or kept in a subordinate role within a group or organization.
彼は会社で長年冷や飯を食わされている。
He has been kept in a low position at the company for many years.