peacock
UK[ˈpiːkɒk]US[ˈpiːkɑːk]
n
A large male bird of the pheasant family, known for its long bright blue and green tail feathers that it can spread out like a fan.
n
A person who is very proud and enjoys showing off their clothes or appearance.
Morpheme Breakdown
pea
cock
pea
bird
cock
male bird
Etymology
The word 'peacock' is a straightforward English compound formed from Old English elements. The first part, 'pea', is a shortened form of 'pēafowl', which itself descends from the Latin 'pāvō', a word for the bird. The second part, 'cock', is the Old English term for a male bird. Thus, the literal construction means "male peafowl." This transparent naming logic highlights the bird's most conspicuous feature to English speakers—its gender and spectacular display, which is primarily a trait of the male. Over time, the term's application extended metaphorically to describe a vain or ostentatious person, directly linking the bird's showy behavior to human characteristics.
Analysis
Structure: pea (bird) + cock (male bird)
pea: From Old English 'pēa', a shortening of 'pēafowl', ultimately from Latin 'pāvō' (peacock). In this compound, it denotes the bird type.
cock: From Old English 'cocc', meaning a male bird, especially a rooster. In this compound, it specifies the male gender.
Examples
The peacock displayed its magnificent tail feathers to attract a mate.
He strutted around the party like a peacock in his new suit.
The peacock's distinctive call echoed through the gardens.