Streak

/striːk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A series or a run of successes or failures in a particular activity.
The team is on a winning streak, having won their last five games.
A period during which someone behaves in a particular way, especially one that is repeated.
She has a streak of stubbornness that makes negotiations difficult.
A long, thin mark or line that differs in color or texture from its surroundings.
There was a bright streak of paint across the old wooden fence.
verb
To mark with a long, thin line or smear.
He decided to streak the canvas with bright colors to create a dynamic effect.
To run naked in a public place as a form of amusement.
During the festival, someone decided to streak through the streets, shocking the crowd.

Etymology

Middle English; from Old English streaca, meaning 'a trace' or 'a mark'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lucky streak
A period of good fortune.
streak of luck
An unexpected or uncharacteristic run of good luck.
streak ahead
To advance or win decisively.
streaking
Running or moving quickly, often used in a humorous context to refer to running naked in public.

Related Words

stripe
A long narrow band of color.
dash
A small amount or a quick movement.
line
A long narrow mark or band.

Slang Meanings

To go streaking.
During the party, they dared each other to streak down the street.
To win consecutively in gambling or sports.
He's been streaking on the slot machines all night.