cockshy

noun

cock·​shy ˈkäk-ˌshī 

plural cockshies

1

a

: a throw at an object set up as a mark

b

: a mark or target so set up

2

: an object or person taken as a butt (as of criticism)

Word History

Etymology

cock entry 1 + shy, noun

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined at sense 1a