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go off half-cocked. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
go off half-cocked, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
go off half-cocked in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
go off half-cocked you have here. The definition of the word
go off half-cocked will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
go off half-cocked, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
From the days of flintlock and caplock firearms, where the half-cock position of the hammer was both a rudimentary safety, and the proper position for priming the pan or inserting a percussion cap. The phrase was originally rendered, "to go off at half-cock."
Pronunciation
Verb
go off half-cocked (third-person singular simple present goes off half-cocked, present participle going off half-cocked, simple past went off half-cocked, past participle gone off half-cocked)
- (idiomatic, colloquial): To take a premature or ill-considered action.
Make sure none of your men go off half-cocked and ruin this operation.
See also
References