Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1952 (SND Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
COCK, v.2 [kɔk]
†1. “To draw back, retract, eat one's words [i.e. of an aspersion or a veiled threat]” (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).
2. “To resile from an engagement” (Rxb. 1825 Jam.2); “to draw back from an offer, bid, etc.” (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).
[Cf. the similar use of Hen, v., which, however, appears to be of later origin. O.Sc. has the phr. to cry cok, to confess defeat, from c.1500 (D.O.S.T.), which may be the same.]
