Definitions

cocky

[kok-ee] / ˈkɒk i /

ADJECTIVE

overly self-assured

Synonyms

STRONGEST

arrogant brash cocksure overconfident presumptuous self-confident

WEAK

bumptious certain conceited confident egotistical hotshot hubristic know-it-all lordly nervy overweening positive smart-alecky smarty-pants sure swaggering swollen-headed vain

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cautious humble meek self-doubting unsure

WEAK

modest shy tentative timid uncertain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sam got a little cocky, tried a show-off spin, got his bird legs tangled and took a tumble.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

Built by "Hitman" developers IO Interactive, "First Light" offers a new version of Bond's origin story, dropping players into the shoes of a cocky but callow young version of the spy still earning his stripes.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

As Cassio, both Jake Roxander and Andrew Robare were notably cocky and mercurial.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

I remember being excited, of course, but also like, “Yes! I’m supposed to be here,” not from a cocky place but more affirmative.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2026

A man appeared above the porch, floating in the air—a blond dude in a white toga, with sunglasses and a cocky smile.

From "The Last Olympian" by Rick Riordan

Vocabulary lists containing cocky

Emotions on Display

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"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney

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Long Way Down

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