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cock

/kɔk/
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The word "cock" has several meanings and uses in English. Here’s a simple explanation for you:

Definitions:
  1. Noun (Animal):

    • Adult Male Bird: A "cock" is an adult male bird, particularly a male chicken.
  2. Noun (Gun Part):

    • Part of a Gunlock: In firearms, the "cock" refers to the part that strikes the percussion cap when the trigger is pulled.
  3. Noun (Faucet):

    • Faucet: The word "cock" can also refer to a faucet that controls the flow of water.
  4. Noun (Obscene):

    • Slang for Penis: Informally, "cock" is a vulgar term for the penis.
  5. Verb:

Usage Instructions:
  • When using "cock" to refer to the male bird, it is common in agricultural or rural discussions.
  • The slang usage is very informal and should be avoided in polite conversation.
  • The verb forms are often used in contexts related to firearms or describing someone's posture or movement.
Advanced Usage:
  • In literature, "cock" can be used metaphorically to describe a person who is overly proud or vain.
    • Example: He strutted about like a cock of the walk, believing he was the best in the group.
Word Variants:
  • Cockerel: A young male chicken.
  • Cocky: An adjective meaning arrogant or conceited, often used to describe someone who is overly confident.
Synonyms:
  • For the animal meaning: rooster
  • For the slang meaning: (not appropriate for polite conversation, but could include terms like "manhood")
  • For the verb meanings: strut, swagger, tilt
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
  • Cock-a-doodle-doo: The sound a rooster makes; often used in a playful context.
  • Cock of the walk: A person who behaves in a very proud and superior way.
Summary:

The word "cock" has multiple meanings, ranging from an adult male bird to informal slang. It can also be used as a verb in various contexts.

Noun
  1. adult male bird
  2. adult male chicken
  3. the part of a gunlock that strikes the percussion cap when the trigger is pulled
  4. faucet consisting of a rotating device for regulating flow of a liquid
  5. obscene terms for penis
Verb
  1. to walk with a lofty proud gait, often in an attempt to impress others
    • He struts around like a rooster in a hen house
  2. set the trigger of a firearm back for firing
  3. tilt or slant to one side
    • cock one's head

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