BANBURY STORY OF A COCK AND A BULL Meaning and
Definition
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"Banbury story of a cock and a bull" refers to a phrase used to describe an unbelievable or nonsensical story or tall tale. This idiomatic expression originates from the English town of Banbury, known for its traditional nursery rhymes and folk stories. The phrase specifically alludes to a popular rhyme or story involving a "cock" (representing a rooster) and a "bull" (a male bovine), which is often depicted in an amusing or far-fetched manner.
The term suggests a story or anecdote that lacks credibility, is implausible, or simply too fantastic to be true. It implies that the narrative is akin to the absurd combination of a rooster and a bull, creating an unlikely and ridiculous scenario. The cock and bull combination symbolizes the merging of two unrelated elements to create a narrative that lacks coherence, consistency, or logical progression.
When someone uses the phrase "Banbury story of a cock and a bull," it is typically to express skepticism or disbelief towards an account that seems highly exaggerated, imaginative, or fabricated. It serves as a colloquialism to dismiss or challenge the veracity or plausibility of a story being told or shared. Overall, the term evokes a sense of amusement and incredulity associated with outlandish or fanciful tales.
Idioms with the word BANBURY STORY OF A COCK AND A BULL
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Banbury story of a cock and a bull
The idiom "Banbury story of a cock and a bull" refers to a fanciful or far-fetched story that is highly exaggerated or fabricated. It is essentially a tall tale or a piece of exaggerated fiction. The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it may have originated from the town of Banbury in England.
