A Cock and Bull Story (Origin)

What Is the Origin of the Saying "A Cock and Bull Story"?

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A cock-and-bull story is an unbelievable tale. The term dates back as far as the mid 17 Century and is said to originate from Stony Stratford in Buckinghamshire, England. Coaches between London and Birmingham changed horses in the town at two of the main coaching inns — The Cock and The Bull.

The banter of the travellers from England's two largest cities resulted in exaggerated and unbelievable stories. Therefore, a cock-and-bull story is an exaggerated or fabricated story like those told in The Cock and The Bull.

Examples of Use:

He tried to convince us with a cock and bull story about his mysterious disappearance.
Her explanation for being late was nothing more than a cock and bull story that nobody believed.
They came up with a cock and bull story to cover up their mistake, but the truth eventually came out.
When confronted about the missing items, he invented a cock and bull story to avoid taking responsibility.
Her excuse for not completing the assignment was a cock and bull story filled with inconsistencies.