COCK (5)

Cock, n. [[It. cocca notch of an arrow.]] 1. 1. The notch of an arrow or crossbow.
2. 2. The hammer in the lock of a firearm.
At cock, At full cock, with the hammer raised and ready to fire; — said of firearms, also, jocularly, of one prepared for instant action. — At half cock. See under Half. — Cock feather (Archery), the feather of an arrow at right angles to the direction of the cock or notch. Nares.