Cock of the Walk - 🐓
Definition: The leader in a group, especially one who is quite conceited about their position.
The term comes from animal husbandry, where an enclosure for domestic fowl was called a “walk.” In that area, they would fight for supremacy until only one remained—the supreme leader, or “cock of the walk.” The strutting pride of roosters has been transferred to bossy, conceited human beings for much longer, but the precise term “cock of the walk” in this sense dates only from the early nineteenth century.
Humorous Quote: “He was such a cock of the walk that even the pavement had to make way for his ego!” – A. Popinjay
Synonyms and Related Expressions:
- Top dog 🐶
- King of the hill ⛰️
- Big cheese 🧀
- Big fish in a small pond 🌊🐟
- Head honcho 👑
- Alpha wolf 🐺
- Numero uno ☝️
Antonyms:
- Underling 🕳️
- Minion 🏃♂️
- Foot soldier 👣
- Peon 🧹
Proverb:
“The rooster may crow, but the hen delivers the goods.” – French Proverb
Suggested Literature and Media:
Books:
- Animal Farm by George Orwell – Because even among farm animals, someone must be the “cock of the walk.”
- Lord of the Flies by William Golding – An exploration of leadership and supremacy among boys stranded on an island.
Movies:
- The Wolf of Wall Street – Where the fast-talking stockbroker Jordan Belfort epitomizes being the “cock of the walk.”
- Mean Girls – Who’s the real queen bee (or cock)?
Songs:
- Eye of the Tiger by Survivor – The anthem for every strutting “cock of the walk.”
- Big Time by Peter Gabriel – Soundtrack for anyone feeling like Numero Uno.
Poetry:
- “O Captain! My Captain!” by Walt Whitman – Reflects on leadership even in the face of adversity.
Inspirational Farewell: “Wander boldly, strut with confidence, and remember that the finest leaders wear humility alongside their feathers.”
