cockpit

noun

area, usually near the front of an aircraft, from which a pilot controls the aircraft or vehicle

Pronunciation: /ˈkɒkˌpɪt/ / /ˈkɑkˌpɪt/

Etymology: Either the same as above or from compound of cock (“boat”) + pit, where the first element is also found in cockboat and coxswain.

The area set aside for junior officers including the ship's surgeon on a man-of-war, where the wounded were treated; the sickbay.
A well, usually near the stern, where the helm is located.
The driver's compartment in a racing car (or, by extension, in a sports car or other automobile).
The compartment in an aircraft or spacecraft in which the pilot sits and from where the craft is controlled.
“Jump in the cockpit and start up the engines / Remove all the wheel blocks, there's no time to waste”
An area from where something is controlled or managed; a centre of control.