/ · 1894 Brewer’s · C · Cock-fighting
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
was introduced into Britain by the Romans. It was a favourite sport both with the Greeks and with the Romans.
That beats cock-fighting. That is most improbable and extraordinary. The allusion is to the extravagant tales told of fighting-cocks.
“He can only relieve his feelings by the … frequent repetition, ‘Well, that beats cock-fighting!ʹ”—Whyte-Melville.
To live like fighting-cocks. To live in luxury. Before game-cocks are pitted they are fed plentifully on the very best food.
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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.
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