cockpit

cockpit · noun¹

Compound of cock (“rooster”) + pit.

cockpit · noun²

Either the same as above or from compound of cock (“boat”) + pit, where the first element is also found in cockboat and coxswain.

First known use, by meaning

• from 16th c. A pit or other enclosure for cockfighting.
• from 16th c. A theater or other entertainment venue.
• from 17th c. The vagina.
• from 17th c. A valley surrounded by steep forested slopes.
• from 17th c. The area set aside for junior officers including the ship's surgeon on a man-of-war, where the wounded were treated; the sickbay.
• from 18th c. A well, usually near the stern, where the helm is located.
• from 20th c. The driver's compartment in a racing car (or, by extension, in a sports car or other automobile).
• from 20th c. The compartment in an aircraft or spacecraft in which the pilot sits and from where the craft is controlled.