Meaning & Definition of word "Duckling"
Duckling
/ˈdʌklɪŋ/
noun:
- 1. A young duck.
- Example: The mother duck led her ducklings to the pond for their first swim.
- 2. A term of endearment or a nickname for someone who is cute or innocent.
- Example: She called her little sister 'duckling' because of her sweet nature.
- 3. A young or inexperienced person.
- Example: As a new employee, she felt like a duckling trying to navigate the busy office.
Etymology
●Derived from Middle English 'dokeling', a diminutive form of 'duck'
Common Phrases and Expressions
duckling in distress:
A young duck that is in trouble or needs help.
sitting duck:
Someone or something that is an easy target.
like a duck to water:
Someone who is well-suited for a situation.
Related Words
duck:
A waterbird with a broad blunt bill, short legs, and webbed feet.
drake:
A male duck.
quack:
The characteristic sound made by a duck.
Slang Meanings of duckling
Meaning: A term used for someone who is inexperienced or naive.
● Example Sentence: He’s just a little duckling at his first job.
Meaning: Referring to someone childish or endearing.
● Example Sentence: She’s acting like a duckling with that cute outfit.