1. The male of the black grouse, a large game bird found in northern Europe and Asia, characterized by black plumage and a lyre-shaped tail.
Usage: chiefly British; ornithology

Examples

• The blackcock is prized by hunters in Scotland and Scandinavia.
• During the spring display, the blackcock performs an elaborate courtship ritual.
• Blackcock populations have declined in some regions due to habitat loss.
• The distinctive lyre-shaped tail of the blackcock makes it easily recognizable.
• Ornithologists study blackcock behavior to understand mating patterns in grouse species.