cock
cock Lexical Profile
cock Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A male bird, especially of a domestic fowl.
"The cock crowed loudly from the fencepost just as the sun began to rise over the farm."
The hammer or firing lever in a firearm that is raised to position it for firing.
"He pulled back the cock of the revolver, making a distinct and intimidating clicking sound."
A valve or faucet used to regulate or stop the flow of a liquid or gas.
"The plumber turned the drain cock to empty the heating radiator before attempting any repairs."
• verb
To tilt, slant, or turn upwards or to one side, often expressing attention, curiosity, or defiance.
"The terrier will often cock its head to the side whenever it hears a high-pitched noise."
To set the hammer of a firearm in a position ready to be fired.
"The guard paused to cock his rifle before stepping out into the dark alley."
To bend a limb or joint at an angle, especially in preparation for throwing or striking.
"The quarterback stepped back into the pocket and began to cock his arm for a deep pass."
Word Nuance & Usage
In modern North American English, 'rooster' is heavily preferred for the male bird to avoid the word's common vulgar slang meaning, though 'cock' remains standard in specialized contexts (e.g., weathercock, stopcock).
• Rhymes for cock
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'cocc', likely of imitative origin mimicking the cry of the bird. Mechanical senses (such as firearms and valves) developed in the 16th century, likely because early firing mechanisms resembled a bird's beak.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.