Commonly found variants; note these may range from acceptable alternatives to
non-standard forms or incorrect spellings*.
* Singlish is a largely spoken creole, and as such descriptivism (recording forms that reflect actual pronunciation in spoken language, or as appearing in the linguistic corpus) is more pertinent than strict prescriptivism. Nevertheless, the use of more standard forms (or for words originating in languages with Latin script, such as Malay, accurate to the original spelling) is recommended and encouraged.
* Singlish is a largely spoken creole, and as such descriptivism (recording forms that reflect actual pronunciation in spoken language, or as appearing in the linguistic corpus) is more pertinent than strict prescriptivism. Nevertheless, the use of more standard forms (or for words originating in languages with Latin script, such as Malay, accurate to the original spelling) is recommended and encouraged.
also can:
cockanaathan
cockanathan
→
English:
cock
+
Tamil:
நாதன்
naathan
Detailed etymology
definitions
noun
- (slightly vulgar) an idiot; a fool; a bumbling moron; a screwed-up fellow
Cockanathan trying to be a cock. A total cockup la!
— 2018 December 27, Ben Lee. Facebook comment on All Singapore Stuff's post. https://www.facebook.com/allsgstuff/photos/what-the-cock-is-thisreader-contribution-by-kheng/2843993669074677/?paipv=0&eav=AfZGAGW124SKqCR5Cly81DOu1t44MD8HLNtwPqnHZDJjtQp7G4iRn3oXhvNfvPkL1Rg&_rdr.
usage notes
Considered slightly less vulgar than other 'cock' words due to its often humorous nature.
related:
references:
1.
2022, Gwee Li Sui. The Leeter Spiaking Singlish: BOOK 2 (Idioms). ISBN: 9789815009613