Pronunciation: [pˈʌtəks] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "puttocks" may seem perplexing to some, but it can be explained through the use of IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced as /ˈpʊtəks/ and refers to the rear end or buttocks of an animal, particularly a bird of prey. The use of the "t" in the middle of the word may be confusing to those unfamiliar with its origin, which comes from the Old English word "puttoc," meaning "a bird caught by the tail."
Puttocks is a term derived from the Old French word "putoce," which refers to the rump or hindquarters of an animal. It is primarily used in a nautical context to describe the upward curve or slope of a ship's stern, particularly in reference to its buttock line. The buttock line is the gentle curve that runs from the widest part of the ship's stern downwards to the waterline. Puttocks are an essential aspect of ship design and have a significant impact on a vessel's stability and overall performance in the water.
In a broader sense, puttocks can also refer to the rear or posterior region of any object or living creature. This includes animals, humans, and various anatomical structures. As such, puttocks may encompass the rounded buttocks, hips, or haunches of a person or animal, often associated with their shape, fullness, or curvature.
The term puttocks is rarely used in modern everyday language, but it has historical significance in marine architecture and naval engineering. It can be found in literature, discussions of shipbuilding, or when exploring the nautical aspects of history. Understanding the concept of puttocks is beneficial for those interested in naval history, ship design, or studying the evolution of maritime technology throughout the ages.
Long-winged kites; among seamen, small shrouds which go from one mast to the other-a supposed corruption of futtock.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "puttocks" is primarily used to refer to the hindquarters or buttocks of an animal, particularly a bird of prey such as a hawk or falcon. However, it is worth noting that "puttocks" is a less common term and not widely recognized.
The etymology of "puttocks" is somewhat uncertain, as it is considered to be a regional term, mainly used in dialects of England. It has been suggested that "puttocks" may have originated from the Old English word "puttocki", which means "the rump" or "the tail end". This Old English word is related to the Middle Low German word "putlok", meaning "tail".
Given the limited usage and regional nature of the word, its etymology may not be as extensively studied as with more common terms.
