half-cocked

adjective

ˈhaf-ˈkäkt How to pronounce half-cocked (audio)
ˈhäf-
1
: being at half cock
2
: lacking adequate preparation or forethought
go off half-cocked

Examples of half-cocked in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The way reason permeated the front offices has bled onto the field, and the players are more reasonable, more rational and not likely to go off half-cocked. Ryan Gaydos, Fox News, 25 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1689, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of half-cocked was in 1689

Dictionary Entries Near half-cocked

Cite this Entry

“Half-cocked.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/half-cocked. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

half-cocked

adjective
-ˈkäkt
: lacking preparation or planning
went off half-cocked

More from Merriam-Webster on half-cocked

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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