cock-a-hoop

[ kok-uh-hoop, -hoop, kok-uh-hoop, -hoop ]

adjective

1. in a state of unrestrained joy or exultation; boastfully elated:

   He was cock-a-hoop over his victory.

2. askew; out of kilter:

   He knocked his hat cock-a-hoop.

cock-a-hoop

adjective

1. in very high spirits
2. boastful
3. askew; confused

Word History and Origins

Origin of cock-a-hoop¹

First recorded in 1520–30; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of cock-a-hoop¹

C16: perhaps from the phrase to set the cock a hoop to live prodigally, literally: to put a cock on a hoop, a full measure of grain

Example Sentences

And while I speak of this, it is not much amiss to advise thee to correct a little this cock-a-hoop courage of thine.

From Project Gutenberg

She said now that she was convinced that her "dear Richard" was perfectly right, and the General was "cock-a-hoop" accordingly.

From Project Gutenberg

All cock-a-hoop for it,” struck in Cattledon: “as the housemaids are.

From Project Gutenberg

I said that his excellency should find me more cock-a-hoop with Shakespeare than with myself.

From Project Gutenberg

Ever shallow, hasty, and positive, he went home quite cock-a-hoop.

From Project Gutenberg