weathercock
|weath-er-cock|
🇺🇸
/ˈwɛðərkɑk/
🇬🇧
/ˈwɛðəkɒk/
rooster that turns with the wind
Etymology
'weathercock' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'wedercok', where 'weder' meant 'weather' and 'cok' meant 'cock (rooster)'.
'weathercock' developed from Old English elements such as 'weder' (weather) and 'cocc' (rooster) into Middle English 'wedercok', and eventually became the modern English word 'weathercock'.
Initially, it meant a rooster-shaped vane used to show wind direction; over time it also acquired the figurative sense of 'a person who changes opinions to follow prevailing trends'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a vane, often in the shape of a rooster, mounted on a high place (such as a roof or steeple) that turns to show the direction of the wind; a weathervane shaped like a cock or rooster.
The old church had a weathercock on its steeple that pointed to the east after the storm.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a person who changes their opinions, behavior, or loyalties frequently to follow prevailing trends or the opinions of others; an opportunist who shifts with the 'wind'.
Voters criticized him as a weathercock for altering his stance whenever public opinion shifted.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/27 13:34