Weathercock: meaning, definitions and examples

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weathercock

 

[ ˈwɛðərˌkɒk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

meteorological instrument

A weathercock is a weathervane in the shape of a rooster, often mounted on a church steeple or a barn, used to show the direction of the wind.

Synonyms

weathervane, wind vane

Examples of usage

  • The weathercock on top of the church steeple spun wildly in the strong wind.
  • The old barn had a weathercock that creaked in the breeze.
Context #2 | Noun

fickle person

Informally, a weathercock can also refer to a person who frequently changes their opinions or behavior, similar to a fickle nature.

Synonyms

fickle person, indecisive person

Examples of usage

  • Don't trust him, he's a weathercock who will agree with whoever he's talking to at the moment.
  • She's such a weathercock, always changing her mind.

Translations

Translations of the word "weathercock" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cata-vento

🇮🇳 मौसम का मुर्गा

🇩🇪 Wetterhahn

🇮🇩 penunjuk arah angin

🇺🇦 флюгер

🇵🇱 wiatrowskaz

🇯🇵 風見鶏 (かざみどり)

🇫🇷 girouette

🇪🇸 veleta

🇹🇷 rüzgar gülü

🇰🇷 풍향계

🇸🇦 دجاجة الطقس

🇨🇿 korouhvička

🇸🇰 veterný kohút

🇨🇳 风向标 (fēngxiàng biāo)

🇸🇮 vetrnica

🇮🇸 veðurhani

🇰🇿 желбағар

🇬🇪 ქარის ვარსკვლავი

🇦🇿 külək fırçası

🇲🇽 veleta

Etymology

The term 'weathercock' originated in the late 16th century, combining 'weather' with 'cock' referring to a male bird, usually a rooster. The use of weathercocks as meteorological instruments dates back to ancient times, with various cultures using different shapes and symbols to indicate wind direction. Over time, the term also developed a figurative meaning to describe someone who is changeable or fickle in nature.

See also: weathered, weathering, weatherman, weatherproof, weatherproofing, weatherstripping, weathervane, weatherward, wether.