cock
UK[kɒk]US[kɑːk]
n
An adult male bird, especially of a domestic fowl; a rooster.
n
A firing lever in a gun which can be raised to be released by the trigger.
v
To tilt or set (something) at an angle or in a ready position.
n
(Vulgar slang) A penis.
Etymology
The word 'cock' originates from Old English cocc, which referred specifically to a male bird. This term is believed to be of onomatopoeic origin, imitating the sound a rooster makes. Its journey through Middle English saw it solidify as the standard term for a rooster. Over time, its semantic field expanded through metaphorical extensions: the hammer of a firearm (from its resemblance to a bird's head), the act of drawing it back (like a bird's strut), and later, into taboo slang, drawing on the concept of maleness and shape.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It functions as a base noun and verb.
Examples
The farm's cock crowed loudly at dawn.
He carefully cocked the pistol before taking aim.
She tilted her head, a gesture of curiosity.