cockshy: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Rare / ArchaicHistorical / Literary
Quick answer
What does “cockshy” mean?
A target for throwing at, especially at fairs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A target for throwing at, especially at fairs; a game of throwing sticks or balls at such a target.
A person or thing that is subjected to frequent criticism or attack; a butt of ridicule.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is historically British. American usage is virtually non-existent; the concept would be described as 'target throwing' or 'ball toss'.
Connotations
In modern British usage, if encountered, it carries a quaint, old-fashioned, or literary connotation.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties, but marginally more likely to be found in British historical texts or dialect.
Grammar
How to Use “cockshy” in a Sentence
[NP] became the cockshy of [NP][NP] was made a cockshyVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rarely used in historical or literary studies.
Everyday
Not used in contemporary conversation.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cockshy”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cockshy”
- Spelling as 'cock-shy' or 'cockshi'.
- Using it to mean 'shy like a rooster'.
- Assuming it is a common modern word.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an archaic or very rare literary term.
No, it is only used as a noun.
It originates from a fairground game where players threw sticks at a cock (rooster) or a representation of one.
Not inherently, but due to its first syllable and archaic nature, it could be misunderstood. It is best avoided in modern usage.
A target for throwing at, especially at fairs.
Cockshy is usually historical / literary in register.
Cockshy: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒkʃaɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːkʃaɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “make a cockshy of someone”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a COCK (rooster) being SHY and hiding, making it a target for teasing.
Conceptual Metaphor
CRITICISM IS THROWING OBJECTS AT A TARGET.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most likely modern meaning of 'cockshy'?