Coxcomby

/ˈkɒkskəmi/ adjective

Definition

Adjective form meaning foolish, vain, or characteristic of a coxcomb; showing ridiculous vanity.

Etymology

From 'coxcomb' + '-y' (adjectival suffix). The suffix transforms the noun into a descriptive adjective meaning 'resembling or like a coxcomb.'

Kelly Says

The suffix '-y' is incredibly productive in English—you can take almost any noun and add it to make an adjective, like 'coxcomby,' 'weather-y,' or 'catty,' and people instantly understand you mean 'resembling that thing,' which is why English speakers are so good at creating new descriptive words on the fly.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Adjectival variant of coxcomb, describing traits or behavior as foolishly vain in the male jester tradition.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'vain,' 'foolish,' 'ostentatious,' or 'pretentious' instead.

Inclusive Alternatives

["vain","foolish","ostentatious","pretentious"]

Related Words

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