Halfcock \Half"cock`\ (-k[o^]k`), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
{Halfcocked}(-k[o^]kt); p. pr. & vb. n. {Halfcocking}.]
To set the cock of (a firearm) at the first notch.
[1913 Webster]
{To go off half-cocked}, {To go off halfcocked}.
(a) To be discharged prematurely, or with the trigger at half
cock; -- said of a firearm.
(b) To do or say something without due thought or care.
[Colloq. or Low]
[1913 Webster]