What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cock
Example
Turn the cock to stop the water from flowing. [cock: noun]
Example
The plumber fixed the leaky cock in the bathroom. [cock: adjective]
faucet
Example
Please turn off the faucet when you're done washing your hands. [faucet: noun]
Example
The plumber replaced the old faucet with a new one. [faucet: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Faucet is more commonly used than cock in everyday language, especially in American English. Faucet is the standard term used in kitchens and bathrooms, while cock is less common and more specialized.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cock and faucet?
While cock is considered more informal and may have slang connotations, faucet is the standard and formal term used to refer to the device in both formal and informal contexts.