half-cocked

adjective

ˈhaf-ˈkäkt How to pronounce half-cocked (audio)
ˈhäf-
1
: being at half cock
2
: lacking adequate preparation or forethought
go off half-cocked

Word History

First Known Use

1689, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of half-cocked was in 1689

Dictionary Entries Near half-cocked

Cite this Entry

“Half-cocked.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/half-cocked. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

half-cocked

adjective
-ˈkäkt
: lacking preparation or planning
went off half-cocked

More from Merriam-Webster on half-cocked

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