half-cock

[ haf-kok, hahf- ]
/ ˈhæfˈkɒk, ˈhɑf- /

verb (used with object)

to set the hammer of (a firearm) at half cock.

Origin of half-cock

First recorded in 1825–35

Words nearby half-cock

half-caste, half-cell, half-century, half-circle, half-closed, half-cock, half-cocked, half-completed, half-concealed, half-conscious, half-convinced

Definition for half-cock (2 of 2)

half cock

noun

the position of the hammer of a firearm when held halfway between the firing and retracted positions by a mechanism so that it will not operate.

Origin of half cock

First recorded in 1695–1705

Example sentences from the Web for half-cock

British Dictionary definitions for half-cock

half-cock

noun

on a single-action firearm, a halfway position in which the hammer can be set for safety; in this position the trigger is cocked by the hammer which cannot reach the primer to fire the weapon
go off at half-cock or go off half-cocked
  1. to fail as a result of inadequate preparation or premature starting
  2. to act or function prematurely