coxcomb

[ koks-kohm ]

noun

1. a conceited, foolish dandy; pretentious fop.

   Synonyms: jackanapes, popinjay, dude

2. Archaic. head; pate.
3. Obsolete. cockscomb ( def 2 ).

coxcomb

/ ˈkɒksˌkəʊm /

noun

1. a variant spelling of cockscomb
2. archaic.
   a foppish man
3. obsolete.
   the cap, resembling a cock's comb, worn by a jester

Other Words From

• cox·comb·i·cal [koks-, kom, -i-k, uh, l, -, koh, -mi-], cox·combic adjective
• cox·combi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of coxcomb¹

First recorded in 1565–75; spelling variant of cockscomb

Example Sentences

In another time, in another place, Trump would be forced to wear a coxcomb cap, don striped tights and dance a supplicant jig before his puppet master in the Kremlin who clearly benefits from America’s free fall into infantile helplessness.

From Salon

“You will excuse my being so much over-powered. If I find him conversable, I shall be glad of his acquaintance; but if he is only a chattering coxcomb, he will not occupy much of my time or thoughts.”

From Literature

His father only called him a coxcomb, and thought it a very good story; but that Mrs. Weston did not like it, was clear enough, by her passing it over as quickly as possible, and making no other comment than that “all young people would have their little whims.”

From Literature

Jo knew that ‘young Laurence’ was regarded as a most eligible parti by worldly mamas, was much smiled upon by their daughters, and flattered enough by ladies of all ages to make a coxcomb of him, so she watched him rather jealously, fearing he would be spoiled, and rejoiced more than she confessed to find that he still believed in modest girls.

From Literature

"And you're a clodpoll," said the girl, bitterly, "and a ninny, a numbskull, a lackwit and a coxcomb!"

From Literature