Plural of cock, referring to male birds, especially roosters. Also refers to taps or valves that control the flow of liquid.
From Old English 'cocc', imitative of the bird's crow. The mechanical meaning (tap/valve) developed from the resemblance of the valve mechanism to a rooster's head and neck when turned.
The rooster has been a symbol of courage and vigilance across cultures, leading to phrases like 'cock of the walk' and explaining why the male bird's name became associated with confidence and leadership. The mechanical usage shows how animal names often transfer to tools that somehow resemble the creature's form or behavior.
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