Hm....I bet they would say that, bel. Or at least, "That presentation was a real cock-up."

But I wonder if it really is related to f-up? because in the UK, and I believe Ireland too but I'm not sure, roosters are referred to as cocks. Imagine my dismany when I realized I had a British children's book with me at my Reading Buddy session with my little Grade One friend:

her: What does that say?
me: It says, "This is a cock, that -"
her: (interrupting) I'm not allowed to say bad words.

I had a bit of a scramble, trying to explain! but I was alarmed too, wondering what on earth would happen to me if a teacher overheard!

Still, I can't imagine a proper old rooster-up, so maybe it is of sexual derivation. But why? because I would think a cock-up would be a good thing.

O wait - unless it relates to the mental confusion caused in some males by unwanted, unexpected, public cock-ups....

Let us go in peace to love and serve the board.