[UN-2 3.]
† 1. trans. To take (the match) out of the cock of the old matchlock gun. Also absol., and with piece as obj. Obs.
1598. Barret, Theor. Warres, 33. Let him vncocke his match, clap his musket vpon his shoulder, and so retire.
1639. Verney Papers (Camden), 240. Charles Price … bedd them uncock theyr peeces.
1650. R. Elton, Military Art (1659), 192. Uncock, and return your Match.
2. To lower the cock or hammer of (a fire-arm) in order to prevent accidental discharge.
[1775. Ash.]
1804. trans. La Martelier’s Three Gil Blas, I. 30. One of my pistols, which … I had forgot to uncock, went off.
1818. Scott, Br. Lamm., xxxiii. Ravenswood … uncocked and returned his pistol to his belt.
1824. W. Irving, T. Trav. (1849), 422. The pistol was uncocked; the burden was resumed.
