'cocktail' originates from English, specifically the word 'cocktail,' where 'cock' referred to a rooster and 'tail' referred to the tail feathers, symbolizing a colorful mixture.

'cocktail' changed from the English word 'cocktail' in the 19th century, initially referring to a horse with a docked tail, and eventually became the modern English word 'cocktail' referring to a mixed drink.

Initially, it meant 'a horse with a docked tail,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a mixed alcoholic drink.'