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Cockatrice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cockatrice

[หˆkษ’kษ™traษชs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mythical creature

A cockatrice is a legendary creature that is said to have the body of a serpent and the head of a rooster. According to myth, it has the ability to kill with its gaze or breath. It is often depicted as a two-legged creature with a fiery breath. Cockatrices are typically associated with medieval bestiaries and alchemical traditions, representing fear and malice. The lore surrounding the cockatrice varies, but it frequently embodies themes of danger and transformation.

Examples of usage

  • The knight bravely faced the cockatrice in the dark forest.
  • Ancient texts described the cockatrice as a creature of immense power.
  • Legends warn that a cockatrice can turn you to stone if you meet its gaze.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare mentions the cockatrice in 'Hamlet' where it's described as a creature of malice, reflecting deeper themes of fear and danger.
  • In Gerald's 'Britain's Historical Folklore', cockatrices symbolize treachery and deceit, connecting to their mythological origins.
  • The creature appears in medieval bestiaries, demonstrating the blend of real and imaginary creatures in cultural storytelling.

Mythology

  • Believed to be born from an egg laid by a rooster and incubated by a snake, the cockatrice has roots in various mythologies across Europe.
  • In some legends, it was said that a cockatrice could kill with its gaze or breath, symbolizing danger and the unknown.
  • The creature often functions as a metaphor for betrayal or hidden malevolence in mythological tales.

Pop Culture

  • Cockatrices feature in various fantasy novels and games, showcasing their mystique as powerful, often villainous creatures.
  • The character appears in video games like Dungeons & Dragons, emphasizing its role as a fierce adversary in many fantasy narratives.
  • The mythical creature serves as inspiration for visual art, represented in various styles portraying its fearsome nature.

Symbolism

  • In medieval times, the cockatrice symbolized death and destruction, often used in literature as a warning against malevolent actions.
  • The hybrid nature of the cockatrice reflects societal fears of the unknown and the dangerous consequences of unnatural creation.
  • As a powerful symbol, it embodies themes of transformation, betrayal, and the clash between humanity and the monstrous.

Origin of 'cockatrice'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'cockatrice' originated from the Latin word 'cocatrix,' meaning 'a monster that hatches from an egg laid by a rooster.'
  • The word 'cockatrice' combines the Old French words for rooster ('coq') and a mythical creature ('trice'), emphasizing its hybrid nature.
  • In literature, the cockatrice is often compared to the Basilisk; both are creatures known for their deadly gaze.

The word 'cockatrice' originates from the late Middle Ages, derived from the Old French 'coqatrice', which means 'rooster' (from 'coq') and 'female' ('-atrice'). This term reflects the creature's hybrid nature, combining traits of a rooster and a serpent. The mythology surrounding the cockatrice is influenced by earlier folklore, particularly from classical and biblical sources. Scholars often point to the biblical references to creatures akin to the cockatrice, such as in the book of Isaiah, where it is mentioned as a venomous creature. The combination of a bird and a reptile symbolizes duality and the merging of different realms in mythology. Over time, the cockatrice has been represented in various forms of literature and art, contributing to its lasting legacy within Western folklore.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,708, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.