Cog: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to a specific component in a complex machine, often implying a small part of a larger mechanism. Can also metaphorically describe someone who is just a small part in a larger system.

• The engineer replaced the broken cog in the machine.
• In the huge corporation, he felt like just another cog.

Commonly used to refer to wheels with teeth that work together to change speed or direction in mechanical devices. It can also imply preparation or equipment for a specific task or activity.

• She shifted the car into a lower gear to climb the hill.
• The climbers packed their gear and headed for the mountains.

Refers specifically to a toothed wheel or gear that engages with a chain or track in machines. It's often used in the context of bicycles or conveyor systems.

• The bike chain slipped off the sprocket.
• Maintenance of the conveyor system includes cleaning each sprocket.

Commonly refers to the individual projections on gears or cogs that interlock with each other. Can also be used in biological terms to describe the teeth in an animal or human mouth.

• One of the gear's teeth was damaged, causing the machine to malfunction.
• The dentist said I need to brush my teeth more thoroughly.

Same as the first 'cog', can also be used as a small part of a machine.

• The engineer replaced the broken cog in the mechanism
• Every cog in the gears must be aligned perfectly for it to work efficiently

Typically used to indicate someone being used or manipulated by others for their own advantage, often without the person realizing it. Can have a negative connotation.

• In the game of politics, he felt like just a pawn
• She realized she was being used as a pawn in their scheme

Historically used to describe someone from a lower socioeconomic class, especially a farmer or laborer. Nowadays, it can carry a derogatory connotation if used to describe someone as unrefined or low-status.

• In medieval times, peasants worked the land to provide for their lords
• He looked down on them as if they were mere peasants

Often used negatively to describe a follower or underling who does the bidding of someone more powerful, typically without question.

• The villain's minions carried out his evil plans without hesitation
• He treats his employees like minions, expecting them to follow his orders blindly