cocked
word · lemma: cock
Definition
Describes something, usually a gun or part of the body, that is set in a ready or angled position. Commonly used for guns that are ready to fire or for a head/eyebrow tilted in a certain way.
Usage & Nuances
'Cocked' is often used in formal, literary, or technical English. It is common in phrases like 'cocked gun', meaning a gun ready to fire, or 'cocked his head', meaning tilted to the side. Not used for modern automatic guns. Also found in idioms like 'eyebrow cocked' for showing curiosity or doubt.
Example Sentences
With an eyebrow cocked, he looked surprised.
basic
She cocked her head, puzzled by the question.
natural
"The gun was already cocked, so be careful," he warned.
natural
He held a cocked gun in his hand.
basic
She cocked her head to listen carefully.
basic
He shot me a cocked eyebrow as if to say, 'Really?'
natural