The male of the sparrow; also applied denominatively to men who show what are thought to be sparrow-like characteristics.
1598. E. Gilpin, Skialetheia (1878), 30. When his Cock-sparrow thoughts to itch begin.
1655. Moufet & Bennet, Health’s Improv. (1746), 205. Avicen as much esteemeth Cock-sparrows Stones.
1659. England’s Conf., 10. They … sent for the two chaste Cock Sparrows, the Lord Munson, and Mr. Henry Martin.
1698. Farquhar, Love & Bottle, IV. i. What, sirrah! would you debauch my maid, you little cock-sparrow?
1820. Scott, Abbot, iv. If this cock-sparrow is to crow over us as he seems to do.
Hence Cock-sparrowish a.
1882. Miss Braddon, Mt. Royal, III. 66. Little Monty, who had all that cock-sparrowish pluck which small men are wont to possess.
