Duck

/dʌk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A waterbird with a broad blunt bill, short legs, and a waddling gait, typically having a distinctive sound; a member of the family Anatidae.

We saw a duck swimming gracefully in the pond.

A term used to refer to a female duck.

The mother duck led her ducklings across the road.

verb

To lower the head or body quickly to avoid being hit or seen.

He had to duck to avoid the low-hanging branch.

To evade or avoid a task or responsibility.

She tried to duck her duties by claiming she was sick.

Middle English 'duc', from Old English 'duc' which means 'to lead'; related to the action of the bird when it leads its young.

duck out

To leave or avoid something unexpectedly.

sitting duck

A person or thing that is an easy target.

duck and cover

A strategy for avoiding danger.

drake

A male duck.

duckling

A young duck.

fowl

Birds raised for food or sport.

To avoid or escape something.

I had to duck out of that party early.

To be a coward or not confront something.

Stop ducking and face your fears!