Cogged: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'cog' comes from the Old Norse word 'kǫgr', meaning a 'toothed or notched wheel'.
• It transferred into English during the 14th century, emphasizing mechanical and nautical uses.
• The '-ed' ending indicates that something has been equipped or designed with cogs.

Science & Technology

• Cogs are fundamental in machines, helping to transfer rotational motion efficiently.
• Mechanical watches rely heavily on cogged gears to maintain precise timekeeping.
• The design of cogged wheels can dramatically influence energy efficiency in machinery.

Pop Culture

• In various video games, cogged gears are often depicted in puzzles and traps, enhancing the challenge.
• Cogged mechanisms can symbolize complexity in storytelling, representing the interlocking lives of characters.
• Animated films frequently illustrate cogged machinery to represent teamwork and collaboration.

Literature & Arts

• Cogs and gears are often metaphors in literature for systems of society or personal struggles.
• Artists sometimes use cogged imagery to depict the relationship between humans and machines, highlighting industrial themes.
• In poetry, 'cogged' can symbolize how each person plays a vital role within the greater 'machine' of life.

Psychology

• The concept of being 'cogged' can reflect one's position in a larger system, leading to feelings of both belonging and insignificance.
• Metaphors involving cogs can be used in therapy to help individuals understand their roles and interactions in social settings.
• Studies suggest that recognizing oneself as a 'cog' in a community can enhance feelings of connectedness.