cockscomb

American  

[koks-kohm] / ˈkɒksˌkoʊm /

noun

1. the comb or caruncle of a cock.

2. the cap, resembling a cockscomb, formerly worn by professional fools.

3. a garden plant, Celosia cristata, of the amaranth family, with flowers, commonly crimson or purple, in a broad spike somewhat resembling the comb of a cock.

4. any of several other species of the genus Celosia.

5. an elongate prickleback, Anoplarchus purpurescens, living among submerged rocks along the Pacific coast of North America.

6. a gaslight burner having four or more jets.

7. coxcomb.

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cockscomb British  

/ ˈkɒksˌkəʊm /

noun

1. the comb of a domestic cock

2. an amaranthaceous garden or pot plant, Celosia cristata, with yellow, crimson, or purple feathery plumelike flowers in a broad spike resembling the comb of a cock

3. any similar species of Celosia

4. informal a conceited dandy

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Etymology

Origin of cockscomb

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at cock ¹, 's ¹, comb

Related Words

• ridge