cock

cock a snook (British, old-fashioned)

to show that you do not respect something or someone by doing something that insults them. In the end he refused to accept his award, cocking a snook at the film industry for which he had such contempt. (usually + at)

the cock of the walk (British, old-fashioned)

a man who acts as if he is more fashionable or important than other people. He acts like the cock of the walk around the office.

See also: walk

a cock-and-bull story (informal)

a story or explanation which is obviously not true. She told me some cock-and-bull story about her car breaking down.

See also: story

go off at half-cock (old-fashioned, old-fashioned)

to suddenly give your opinion without preparing what you are saying or understanding the subject you are talking about, often because you are angry. You don't listen. You just go off at half-cock without even hearing the end of my sentence.