Cock

/kɑk/ noun

Definition

male bird, especially a rooster, or a valve controlling flow

Etymology

Old English cocc, imitative of crowing sound

Kelly Says

Multiple meanings from barnyard fowl to mechanical devices

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

The bird name has been used as a masculinity marker; 'cock' entered slang with gendered sexual connotations (distinct from farm animal reference). Context determines whether deployment carries gendered subtext.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'rooster' in formal/mixed contexts to avoid unintended sexual innuendo. When discussing poultry, 'rooster' is clearer.

Inclusive Alternatives

["rooster","male chicken"]

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