1. The length of the step of a cock, as the measure of a very short distance or space.
1626. Breton, Fantastickes, Feb. B 4 (D.). It is now February, & the Sun is gotten up a Cocke-stride of his climbing.
1678. Ray, Eng. Proverbs (1678), 52. At twelf-day the days are lengthened a Cock-stride.
1822. Hogg, Perils of Man, II. 236 (Jam.). Afore yon sun were twa cockstrides down the west.
2. advb. phrase. A-cock-stride: a-cock-horse, astride. (nonce-use.)
1840–5. Barham, Ingol. Leg., Monstre Balloon. A cockstride the Tuileries pantiles. Ibid., Truants. As they merrily ride All a cockstride Of that comet’s tail.
