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coxcomb

Archaic Terms
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

A vain, conceited man obsessed with his own appearance and importance.

Detailed Definition
The coxcomb is a comic figure of arrogance and empty self-regard, common in early modern satire. In poetry, the term functions as a sharp insult, targeting those who mistake ornament for substance. Poets employed it to ridicule social climbers, shallow courtiers, and pretentious lovers, reinforcing moral lessons about humility, self-knowledge, and the dangers of self-deception.
Example
Example in poetry:
A coxcomb struts in borrowed wit, mistaking noise for thought; The poet skewers coxcomb pride with one well-aimed line; Each coxcomb polishes his name while dulling sense; Satire thrives where coxcombs preen
Additional Notes
Coxcomb is a staple of satirical poetry, targeting vanity and self-importance. The term is closely tied to visual excess—clothing, gestures, and speech. Poets deploy it to criticise shallow masculinity and misplaced pride, often contrasting outer polish with inner emptiness. It is especially effective in moral satire where ridicule functions as correction.
Also Known As
Popinjay Fopling Peacock fop
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