'At full cock' definitions:

Definition of 'At full cock'

From: GCIDE
  • Cock \Cock\, n. [It. cocca notch of an arrow.]
  • 1. The notch of an arrow or crossbow. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. The hammer in the lock of a firearm. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]