the leader in a group, especially one with a conceited, domineering manner.
Origin
1850-55
British Dictionary definitions for cock of the walk
cock of the walk
noun
1.
(informal) a person who asserts himself in a strutting pompous way
Idioms and Phrases with cock of the walk
cock of the walk
A conceited, bossy person, as in Since his last promotion he's been acting like the cock of the walkâhe's unbearable. This expression alludes to the rooster's proud strut about the barnyard, asserting his rule over hens and chicks. [ Mid-1800s ]