rooster

bird

Also known as: cock, cockerel

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

A rooster is an adult male domestic chicken, also referred to as a cock. The term can also apply to adult males of other bird species. Roosters are known for their distinctive loud call, "cock-a-doodle-do," which is often heard at dawn. The word "rooster" was first used in 1772.12

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chicken
Natural history
Males (called cocks or roosters) and females (hens) are known for their fleshy combs, lobed wattles hanging below the bill, and high-arched tails. In some roosters, the tail can extend more than 30 cm (12 inches) in length.
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Males (called cocks or roosters) and females (hens) are known for their fleshy combs, lobed wattles hanging below the bill, and high-arched tails. In some roosters, the tail can extend more than 30 cm (12 inches) in length.
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Chinese zodiac
History and legend of the Chinese zodiac
The sheep, monkey, and rooster came next after helping one another across the river. The dog finished second to last after pausing to take a bath or to play in the river. The pig came in last after stopping to eat and rest along the way. Thus, the animals…
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The sheep, monkey, and rooster came next after helping one another across the river. The dog finished second to last after pausing to take a bath or to play in the river. The pig came in last after stopping to eat and rest along the way. Thus, the animals…
Read More

domestication
Domestication of animals
Cockfighting was instrumental in bringing about the selection of these birds for larger size. Cocks later acquired religious significance. In Zoroastrianism the cock was associated with protection of good against evil and was a symbol of light. In ancient Greece it was also an object…
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Cockfighting was instrumental in bringing about the selection of these birds for larger size. Cocks later acquired religious significance. In Zoroastrianism the cock was associated with protection of good against evil and was a symbol of light. In ancient Greece it was also an object…
Read More