rooster

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rooster" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a male chicken, often in discussions about farming, animals, or symbolism in culture. Example: "The rooster crowed at dawn, signaling the start of a new day on the farm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is clear that in medieval times there were people who observed what looked like a rooster laying an egg and now we know that actually it's possible," he says.

The Guardian - Books

This included some of Apfel's collection of exquisite pieces by rarified Paris and New York designers: there was a coat of multicoloured rooster, duck and fowl feathers by Jean-Louis Scherrer from 1962, and an orange jumpsuit by Geoffrey Beene from the early 80s.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Your woman or your rooster?

The Economist

Take Saint Vitus, with his cauldron and rooster, whose extensive remit apparently includes patronage of youth, smiths, pharmacists, brewers, vintners, innkeepers, actors, the deaf and helper for those suffering fits, illness of the eyes and sterility.

The Economist

Its growth prospects, after all, are still remarkable even if the rooster stays earthbound.

The Economist

The rooster may be the mascot of the University of South Carolina's sports teams; but the state regularly finishes very high (sometimes even top) in rankings of the number of women killed by abusive partners.

The Economist

It was set in rural Wiltshire, and its hero, Johnny "Rooster" Byron, was a drug taker and dealer, a seducer of adolescent girls, a hard-drinking and hard-swearing romantic fantasist.

The Economist

Rooster lived in a mobile home parked illegally in a glade in the woods where he held wild parties and mocked society and its institutions, especially the Kennet and Avon Council.Mr Rylance liked what he read so much that he agreed to take on the part when the play was completed.

The Economist

The year of the rooster may yet deliver a wake-up call, but to America rather than to China.

The Economist

ON FEBRUARY 9th the Chinese new year begins: the year of the rooster.

The Economist

Many creatures make an appearance, among them an arrogant rooster, a pair of lions and a very annoyed-looking goose.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rooster" in writing, consider your audience and the level of formality required. "Cockerel" is a more formal alternative, while "male chicken" is a neutral option. Be mindful of the connotations associated with the term, particularly in contexts related to cockfighting or symbolism.

Common error

Avoid using "rooster" in contexts where a more general term like "chicken" or "poultry" is more appropriate. Using "rooster" when the sex of the bird is not relevant can be distracting or confusing for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "rooster" is as a noun, denoting a male chicken. It can function as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. As Ludwig AI states, the word is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

20%

Independent

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "rooster" functions primarily as a noun designating a male chicken, commonly used in diverse contexts ranging from news and media to encyclopedic entries. According to Ludwig AI, the term is grammatically correct and widely applicable. While alternatives like "cockerel" and "male chicken" exist, "rooster" strikes a balance between informality and precision. Analysis of authoritative sources reveals a neutral register with frequent appearances in news and encyclopedic content, making it a versatile term for various communicative purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cockerel

A more formal or British term for a young male chicken.

male chicken

A straightforward and descriptive alternative to "rooster".

bantam rooster

Refers to a smaller breed of rooster.

yardbird

Informal term referring to a chicken, may include roosters.

fighting cock

Specifically refers to a rooster bred for cockfighting.

the cock of the walk

Refers to someone who is dominant or arrogant.

farm animal

Broader term referring to animals raised on a farm, can include roosters.

weathercock

Relates to a weather vane often shaped like a rooster.

spring chicken

Figurative language that implies youth and vigor.

top of the roost

Idiomatic expression indicating a position of power.

FAQs

How to use "rooster" in a sentence?

The word "rooster" typically refers to an adult male chicken. For example: "The "rooster" crowed loudly at dawn."

What can I say instead of "rooster"?

You can use alternatives like "cockerel" (more formal) or "male chicken" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "rooster" or "chicken"?

"Rooster" specifically refers to a male chicken, while "chicken" is a general term that can refer to either a male or female fowl.

What is the symbolic meaning of a "rooster"?

The ""rooster"" often symbolizes courage, pride, and vigilance, and is associated with dawn and new beginnings.