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Definition of stopcock

stopcock

/ˈstɑːp.kɑːk/
stop · cock
Plural:stopcocks
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stopcock Lexical Profile

stopcock Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A valve with a rotatable plug fitted in a pipe or laboratory glassware for regulating or completely shutting off the flow of a liquid or gas, especially the main water supply in a building.

Example

"Before repairing the leaking pipe under the sink, the plumber turned off the main stopcock in the basement."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for stopcock

• Nearby Words

stooped
stop
stop sign
stopcock
stopgap
stoplight
stoplight loosejaw

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 16th century as a compound of "stop" and "cock" in the sense of a spout or tap, originally inspired by the resemblance of early tap handles to a rooster's crest.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Stopcock. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/stopcock
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