How Do You Spell COCK AND BULL STORY?

Pronunciation: [kˈɒk and bˈʊl stˈɔːɹɪ] (IPA)

The expression "cock and bull story" is used to describe a far-fetched and unbelievable tale. The spelling of the word "cock" comes from the Old English word "cocc," which referred to a male bird. The spelling of "bull" comes from the Old Norse word "boli," which meant "young bull." The pronunciation is /kɒk ənd bʊl ˈstɔːrɪ/, with the stress on the first syllable of both "cock" and "bull." So, the next time you hear a story that sounds unbelievable, you can describe it as a "cock and bull story."

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Idioms
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COCK AND BULL STORY Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "cock and bull story" refers to a fictional or exaggerated account or tale that is unlikely or absurdly unbelievable. It is used to describe a fabricated narrative or an elaborate lie that seems implausible and lacks credibility. This expression suggests that the story being told is full of fantastical details, typically involving extraordinary events or characters. The origins of this idiomatic phrase trace back to 18th-century Britain, where it was commonly used to dismiss fictional stories that lacked truthfulness or were intended to deceive others.

    A "cock and bull story" often features plots or events that are far-fetched, whimsical, or contradictory beyond reason. The emphasis of this expression is on the incredibility and lack of believability of the narrative being presented. It implies that the storyteller is not to be trusted, and that the account being provided should not be taken seriously.

    The term "cock and bull" itself may allude to the practice of telling tall tales or exaggerated stories in old English taverns, where patrons would engage in competitive storytelling over drinks. This phrase is now commonly used in both casual and formal contexts to dismiss or express skepticism towards a story or explanation that appears too imaginative or excessively fabricated.

Common Misspellings for COCK AND BULL STORY

  • cock-and-bull story
  • cok and bul story
  • cock and bull storie
  • cock and bole story
  • coack and bull story

Idioms with the word COCK AND BULL STORY

  • a cock and bull story The idiom "a cock and bull story" refers to a far-fetched or unbelievable tale or excuse. It describes a narrative that is highly exaggerated, fictional, or lacks credibility.
  • cock and bull story A far-fetched or unbelievable tale or account that is likely to be untrue.