weathercock
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈwɛðərˌkɒk/
KK: /ˈwɛðərˌkɒk/
intransitive verb
Definition
To change direction or position based on the wind's movement, often used in reference to aircraft or missiles.
Example
The aircraft began to weathercock as it encountered strong winds during the flight.
Tense Forms
Past: weathercocked
Past Participle: weathercocked
Conversation
Did you see how that plane seemed to weathercock in the wind yesterday?
Yeah, it was really interesting to watch it move like that!
I guess it had to adjust to the changing air currents.
Definitely, it's amazing how they can weathercock so smoothly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
veer
sway
drift
Antonyms
steady
remain
stabilize
noun
Definition
A device, often shaped like a rooster, that shows the direction of the wind. It is usually placed on top of a building.
Example
The weathercock on the barn turned to face the strong winds coming from the east.
Conversation
Did you see that weathercock on the old barn yesterday?
Yeah, it was really cool! I love how it spins with the wind.
It's funny how it reminds me of people who change their opinions like a weathercock.
Root Explanation
Weathercock → The word is formed from "weather" (from Old English *weder*, meaning air or atmosphere) and "cock" (from Old English *coc*, meaning male bird). A weathercock is a rooster that indicates the direction of the wind, hence relating to the atmosphere and air.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'air' ('weder') and a 'rooster' ('coc') that shows which way the wind is blowing. This helps you remember that a weathercock is a device that indicates wind direction.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.