Meaning & Definition of word "Turkey"
to
Turkey
/ˈtɜːr.ki/
noun:
- 1. A large bird native to North America, with a fan-shaped tail and wattled neck, often associated with Thanksgiving.
- Example: We had roast turkey for dinner on Thanksgiving.
- 2. The meat of the turkey, typically cooked and eaten.
- Example: I love turkey sandwiches for lunch.
- 3. A failure or a flop, particularly in reference to a movie or performance.
- Example: The film was a total turkey, receiving terrible reviews from critics.
- 4. A term used in the sport of bowling to refer to three strikes in a row.
- Example: He bowled a turkey during the tournament and won first place.
verb:
- 1. To fail miserably or to fall flat, especially in a performance.
- Example: The comedian really turkeyed during his set last night.
Etymology
The word 'turkey' derives from the Turkish name for the country of Turkey, as European settlers encountered the bird through trade with Native Americans who had long domesticated it.
Common Phrases and Expressions
turkey shoot:
An easy target or competition.
talk turkey:
To discuss something frankly or seriously.
a real turkey:
Something that is unsuccessful or of poor quality.
Related Words
Thanksgiving:
A national holiday celebrated in the United States and Canada, marking the harvest and giving thanks.
poultry:
Domestic birds raised for food, such as chickens and ducks.
Slang Meanings of turkey
Meaning: To mess something up or to make a mistake.
Example Sentence: He really turkeyed that presentation.
Meaning: A person who is acting foolishly.
Example Sentence: Stop being such a turkey and just go for it!