Meaning & Definition of word "Peck"

Peck

/pɛk/

noun:

  • 1. A quick, light touch or stroke.
    • Example: He gave her a peck on the forehead as a sign of affection.
  • 2. A small quantity or amount.
    • Example: She only took a peck of the pie, as she wasn’t very hungry.

verb:

  • 1. To strike or bite with a beak or pointed object.
    • Example: The bird began to peck at the seeds scattered on the ground.
  • 2. To kiss lightly.
    • Example: She gave him a quick peck on the cheek before leaving.
  • 3. To take small bites or nibbles.
    • Example: He pecked at his food, hardly eating anything.

Etymology

Middle English pekken, from Old English pæccean, meaning 'to strike, peck'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pecking order:

a hierarchical system of social organization.

pecking away:

to work at something persistently.

a peck of dirt:

a small amount of dirt or refuse.

Related Words

pecker:

a person or thing that pecks.

peckish:

slightly hungry.

Slang Meanings of peck

Meaning: to give a quick kiss.

Example Sentence: He gave her a peck before leaving.

Meaning: to bother or annoy someone.

Example Sentence: Stop pecking at me about my plans!