Definition

A target or object that is aimed at during throwing contests, often used for practice or competition.

Example

In the village fair, children took turns trying to hit the cockshy with a ball.

Conversation

Have you ever tried to hit a cockshy at the fair?

No, I haven't! What is it exactly?

It's basically a target you throw at to win prizes.

That sounds fun! I’d love to give it a shot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cockshy is derived from "cock" (from Old English "coc", meaning rooster or male bird) and "shy" (from Old English "sceoh", meaning to throw or to shoot). The term originally referred to a game where players would throw objects at a wooden figure of a rooster, hence the combination of the two parts describes the act of throwing at a cock.

Memory Tip

Imagine throwing something at a wooden rooster — that's what 'cockshy' means, combining the idea of a 'cock' and the action of 'throwing'.

Visually Confused Words