cock-ˈsparrow
The male of the sparrow; also applied denominatively to men who show what are thought to be sparrow-like characteristics.
| 1598 E. Guilpin Skialetheia (1878) 30 When his Cock-sparrow thoughts to itch begin. 1655 Moufet & Benn. Health's Impr. (1746) 205 Avicen as much esteemeth Cock-sparrows Stones. 1659 England's Conf. 10 They..sent for the two chaste Cock Sparrows, the Lord Munson, and Mr. Henry Martin. 1698 Farquhar Love & a Bottle iv. i, What, sirrah! would you debauch my maid, you little cock-sparrow? 1820 Scott Abbot iv, If this cock-sparrow is to crow over us as he seems to do. |
Hence cock-ˈsparrowish a.
| 1882 M. E. Braddon Mt. Royal III. 66 Little Monty, who had all that cock-sparrowish pluck which small men are wont to possess. |