Definition

1. Noun:
   • A weathervane shaped like a rooster: A device, often placed on the roof of a building, that rotates to show the direction of the wind. Its traditional form is that of a rooster.
   • (Figurative) A person who frequently changes opinions or loyalties: Someone who is inconstant, easily swayed, or quick to adapt their views to the prevailing trend or popular opinion.

Usage Examples

• Literal Meaning:

  • The old church's spire was topped with a gilded weathercock.
  • We could tell the wind was from the north because the weathercock pointed that way.

• Figurative Meaning:

  • In politics, he was seen as a weathercock, always aligning with the winning side.
  • Don't rely on his advice; he's a weathercock who changes his mind with every new opinion he hears.

Advanced Usage

• "to turn like a weathercock": To change direction or opinion frequently and easily.
  • His political allegiances turn like a weathercock, depending on the latest polls.

Variants and Related Words

• Weathervane (or wind vane) (n): The general term for a device that shows wind direction. A is a specific type of weathervane.
  • The barn had a simple arrow-shaped weathervane.

Synonyms

• Literal: wind vane, weather vane.
• Figurative: opportunist, timeserver, chameleon, flip-flopper.

Related Idioms

• "To veer/shift like a weathercock": To change direction or opinion suddenly and unpredictably.
  • The company's strategy veered like a weathercock with each new market report.

Noun

1. weathervane with a vane in the form of a rooster