Pronunciation: [kˈɒkɪd] (IPA) 
The word "cockeyed" is spelled with four consonants and two vowels. The first syllable, "cock," is pronounced with the velar plosive sound /k/ followed by the vowel diphthong /ɑʊ/. The second syllable, "eyed," starts with the voiced palatal fricative sound /dʒ/ and is followed by the vowel sound /aɪ/. The word means something is out of alignment or askew. "Cockeyed" can also mean something is intoxicated or ridiculous.
Cockeyed is an adjective used to describe something that is off-kilter, askew, or crooked, usually in a literal or physical sense. It is often used to characterize things that are not straight or level, appearing skewed or slanted. For instance, a picture hanging on the wall can be cockeyed if it is slightly tilted or hanging crookedly. Similarly, a table can be cockeyed if one of its legs is shorter than the others, causing it to be unbalanced and wobbly.
In a figurative sense, cockeyed can also describe something that is misguided, absurd, or irrational. It is often used to convey a sense of disbelief or astonishment when something is perceived as absurdly unrealistic or unlikely to happen. For example, if someone makes a wildly unrealistic claim or proposal, it may be described as a cockeyed idea or suggestion. It can also imply a lack of common sense or sound judgment.
Cockeyed can be used to describe a wide range of objects, situations, or ideas that deviate from the expected or normal state. Its versatility allows it to be applied to describe physical misalignments as well as illogical or absurd concepts. Whether referring to a lopsided picture frame or an impractical plan, cockeyed highlights a sense of irregularity or foolishness.
The word "cockeyed" originated in early 19th century America. Its etymology can be traced back to the combination of two separate words: "cock" and "eye".
The term "cock" in this context suggests something that is askew, crooked, or out of alignment. It likely originated from the idea of a rooster's head being held in a tilted or skewed position. This symbolism is associated with disorientation or a lack of balance.
The word "eye" refers to the organ of sight and perception. Combining "cock" and "eye", the word "cockeyed" metaphorically describes something that is visually or perceptually out of order, unsteady, or distorted. It is often used to describe things that are not straight, level, or aligned properly.
