“Cock of the Walk” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 12, 2024 by Liam Daniel

The phrase “cock of the walk” may be one you encounter in everyday conversation and writing. This reference explores the meaning of the phrase, along with the story behind its origin.

You will also find some examples of how this phrase is used in conversations or statements, followed by suggestions of other ways to say “cock of the walk” while conveying the same meaning.

Cock of the Walk Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The popular idiom “cock of the walk” means a person who thinks and acts like they are above or better than everyone else in a group situation.
Cock of the Walk Meaning
Cock of the Walk Meaning – Created by 7ESL

Cock of the Walk Meaning

The phrase “cock of the walk” refers to someone who is overly confident, self-assured, or behaves in a dominant and boastful manner, often believing they are the most important or powerful person in a particular situation.

Origin of the Term

The origin of this phrase is uncertain. However, the most likely explanation is that the phrase was derived from a source of entertainment in the early 1800s. During this time, men on the boats out on the Mississippi River would fight each other to determine who was the best of the best. The winner would be awarded the title “Cock of the Walk.”

Usage of “Cock of the Walk”

Here are some examples of how to use “cock of the walk” in different contexts:

  1. Describing someone’s arrogance:
    • “He strutted into the meeting like the cock of the walk, assuming everyone would agree with him.”
  2. Referring to someone in charge:
    • “As soon as he became the team leader, he started acting like the cock of the walk, bossing everyone around.”
  3. Talking about someone showing off:
    • “At the party, he was the cock of the walk, bragging about his new job and car.”
  4. In a competitive context:
    • “After winning the competition, she was the cock of the walk, feeling unbeatable.”
  5. Referring to a confident person:
    • “In his neighborhood, he’s the cock of the walk, with everyone looking up to him.”

Related Terms to “Cock of the Walk”

  • Top dog – Refers to the most important or dominant person in a group.
  • Big shot – Describes someone who is important or influential, often used with a hint of sarcasm.
  • King of the hill – Refers to someone who is at the top or most successful in a particular area.
  • Head honcho – A slang term for the person in charge or the leader.
  • Alpha male – Describes someone who behaves in a dominant, leader-like manner, typically used for men.
  • Show-off – Refers to someone who likes to display their abilities or possessions to impress others.
  • Peacock – Used to describe someone who likes to strut or show off, often to draw attention.
  • Swagger – Refers to someone walking or behaving with a confident, boastful attitude.
  • Bossy boots – A light-hearted way of describing someone who acts bossy or authoritative.
  • Braggart – Refers to someone who brags or boasts excessively.

Other Ways to Say this Phrase

There are many alternative ways to say “cock of the walk.” Some of the other ways you can say this phrase while still conveying the same meaning include:

  • He/she is better than everyone else
  • He/she is the best
  • He/she is the most valuable asset

“Cock of the Walk” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement made by a celebrity poking fun at the producer.

  • “He loved acting like he was the cock of the walk. Ordering us all around every day, pretending he was better than us and didn’t need us there.”

A statement made by a politician running for office.

  • “I am new to this whole world of politics. That is why I can promise you that I won’t act like the cock of the walk.”

Examples in Conversation

A conversation between two friends working on a project with other friends.

  • Friend 1: I hate it when Mr. Hardy makes us work with Jason.
  • Friend 2: I know, me too. He acts like the cock of the walk all the time.
  • Friend 1: Precisely!

A conversation between two co-workers about another co-worker in the office.

  • Co-worker 1: Being on a team with Jeff is difficult.
  • Co-worker 2: Why do you say that? I think Jeff is a great person.
  • Co-worker 1: Oh, he is. It is just when you put him in a group situation, he likes to act like the cock of the walk and I don’t like that.
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