acock
Definition
Adverb:
- In a cocked position: "acock" describes something that is set or tilted to one side, especially a hat, in a manner reminiscent of a cocked firearm or a jaunty angle.
- Pertaining to a hat: Specifically, it refers to a hat being worn at a rakish or defiant angle.
Adjective:
- Tilted or turned aside: Used attributively to describe a hat or similar object that is positioned at an angle.
Usage Examples
Adverb:
- He wore his hat acock, giving him a swaggering appearance. (His hat was tilted to one side in a bold manner.)
Adjective:
- The acock hat was a mark of his rebellious style. (The tilted hat signified his nonconformity.)
Advanced Usage
- "to set one's hat acock": a fixed phrase meaning to tilt one's hat to one side, often for a fashionable or defiant effect.
- The soldier set his hat acock before entering the tavern. (He adjusted his hat to a rakish angle.)
Variants and Related Words
Cock (verb): to tilt or turn up to one side.
- She cocked her head to listen more carefully. (She tilted her head sideways.)
Cocked (adjective): raised or tilted into a position ready for use.
- He stood with a cocked hat, waiting for the signal. (His hat was tilted upward.)
Synonyms
- Askew: not straight or level; tilted to one side.
- Akimbo: with hands on hips and elbows turned outward (not directly synonymous but conveys a similar sense of angled positioning).
- Slanted: inclined at an angle.
Related Idioms
- Cock a snook: to show disrespect or defiance by making a gesture (often with the thumb to the nose). This idiom shares the idea of a defiant tilt with "acock."
- He cocked a snook at the rules and left early. (He showed defiance.)
Note: "Acock" is a rare, archaic, or literary word, primarily found in historical or poetic contexts. It is not commonly used in modern everyday English.