What does peacock mean?
A peacock is the male peafowl, a large bird recognized for its striking blue neck and the spectacular fan of elongated feathers it displays, especially when courting or defending itself. The male's plumage is often more vivid than that of the female, or peahen. In everyday figurative use, “peacock” can describe a person who is vain or overly concerned with showing off, and as a verb it means to make a conspicuous display of oneself. These figurative uses are informal and often humorous or disapproving. The word is especially associated with pride and ostentation, as in the familiar expression “proud as a peacock.” Although the bird's display can appear extravagant, its plumage and behavior have a functional role in attracting mates and signaling fitness. The term should not be used for the entire species; “peafowl” is the more precise collective name.
The male of the peafowl, a large bird known for its colorful plumage and often an elaborate fan-shaped display of tail feathers.
"A peacock displayed its feathers beside the garden path."
In figurative use, usually informal and disparaging, the word can describe a vain or ostentatious person.
To behave in a conspicuous, proud, or self-admiring way, especially in order to attract attention.
"He peacocked in front of the visitors, repeatedly adjusting his jacket."
Informal and generally disapproving or humorous in tone.
The plural is used for both the birds and, figuratively, for people described as peacocks.
"Several peacocks wandered across the lawn."
A peacock's apparent tail is actually formed from elongated upper-tail coverts, which the bird raises like a living fan.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does peacock come from?
The English word comes through Middle English from Old French “paon,” which was borrowed from Latin “pavo,” meaning “peacock.” Latin “pavo” also gave rise to the family of English words associated with peafowl, including “peafowl” and “peahen.” The distinction between the male name and the more general word for the species reflects a long-standing tendency in English to reserve the more ornate term for the conspicuous male.
Related word forms
How peacock is actually used
As a noun, the word normally refers to the male bird; in figurative use it is informal and often mildly critical. As a verb, it describes conspicuous or self-satisfied display and is generally informal.
Easily confused with peacock
A peafowl refers to the species as a whole, including both the male and female, whereas a peacock specifically means the male bird.