Cog Meaning and Definition
Cog
Pronunciation
/kɔːɡ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small toothed wheel or pinion, used to transmit motion or power from one part of a machine to another.
Examples
- The clock’s intricate mechanism featured a delicate cog.
- In the car’s transmission, the cog worked in harmony to smooth out the gear shifts.
Synonyms
- Wheel
- Pinion
Antonyms
- Static
- Stagnant
Etymology
The word ‘Cog’ originates from Old English and Germanic languages, where it referred to a toothed wheel or a pinion.
Usage Notes
When using the term ‘Cog’, it is important to understand its specific context, such as mechanical systems or gear mechanisms. In modern language, ‘Cog’ is often used metaphorically to describe small, yet crucial components in complex systems.
Cultural References
The term ‘Cog’ has been referenced in popular culture, such as in the film ‘A.I. Artificial Intelligence’ where the main character, David, is a highly advanced android who can function like a cog in machines.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
‘As smoothly as a cog’ is a common idiomatic expression, indicating that something is functioning efficiently and without issues.
Related Words or Phrases
- Gear
- Pinion
- Wheel
Collocations
- Cog and wheel
- Cog and pinion
- Cog and gear
Frequency of Use
The word ‘Cog’ is relatively rare in modern language, but it is still used in technical and mechanical contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Core
- Go
- Kog