Part of Speech

Noun Phrase

Phonetic Transcription

/θriː-weɪ kɒk/

Meaning and Usage

The term "three-way cock" refers specifically to a type of valve or fitting that has three openings or connections, allowing for the control of fluid flow in different directions. This term is more commonly used in plumbing, mechanical, and engineering contexts rather than in casual conversation.

The frequency of use is relatively low in everyday language, primarily appearing in specialized technical literature or professional discussions. It is more likely to be found in written contexts than oral speech.

Example Sentences

1. The plumber recommended installing a three-way cock to improve water flow efficiency.

2. Плотник порекомендовал установить тройной кран для повышения эффективности потока воды.

3. During the maintenance check, we found that the three-way cock was leaking.

4. Во время проверки технического состояния мы обнаружили, что тройной кран протекает.

5. A properly functioning three-way cock is essential for the smooth operation of the irrigation system.

6. Правильно функционирующий тройной кран необходим для беспрепятственной работы системы орошения.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "three-way cock" itself is not commonly part of idiomatic expressions, here are a few idiomatic phrases where "cock" is utilized:

1. "Cock and bull story"
2. This means an improbable tale or a fanciful story.
3. Example: "He told me a cock and bull story about why he was late."

4. Он рассказал мне невероятную историю о том, почему он опоздал.

5. "Cock-a-doodle-doo"

6. The sound a rooster makes, often used to denote the start of the day or morning.
7. Example: "The rooster's cock-a-doodle-doo signaled the break of dawn."

8. Пение петуха «кукушка-кукушка» сообщило о наступлении зари.

9. "Cock your hat"

10. To tilt one's hat suggestively or stylishly.
11. Example: "He always cocks his hat to the side when he walks into a room."

12. Он всегда наклоняет свою шляпу на бок, когда заходит в комнату.

13. "Like a chicken with its head cut off"

14. Refers to someone who is frantically busy or confused.
15. Example: "She was running around like a chicken with its head cut off trying to organize the event."

16. Она бегала, как курица без головы, пытаясь организовать мероприятие.

17. "Don’t count your chickens before they hatch"

18. A reminder not to assume success before it is certain; to avoid premature optimism.
19. Example: "I know you’re excited about the job interview, but don’t count your chickens before they hatch."
20. Я знаю, что ты взволнован собеседованием, но не торопись с планами.

Etymology

The word "cock" in English has roots in Old English "cocc," which meant "male bird" or "rooster," and it is connected to various other languages like Latin "gallus" and Old Norse "kokkr." The combination "three-way" refers to the three openings in the valve, where "three" is derived from Old English "þrīe," and "way" comes from Old English "weg," meaning a path or direction.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Three-way valve
• Diverter valve
• Three-port valve

Antonyms

• Two-way valve
• Single port valve
• Straight-through valve