Definition of cot

The word "cot" has a fascinating history. It originated in the Middle English period, around the 14th century, from the Old English word "cote", which meant "a small enclosure" or "a small house". In Old English, "cote" was also used to describe a small barn or a coop for animals. Over time, the meaning of "cot" shifted to refer specifically to a small bed or a cradle, likely due to the resemblance of the bed's frame to a small enclosure or a shelter for a child. By the 17th century, "cot" was commonly used to describe a small, enclosed bed for a child, often with a mattress and bedding. Today, the word "cot" is still used to describe a small bed, often used for infants, toddlers, or young children.