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Turkey

/ˈtɜːr.ki/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A large bird native to North America, with a fan-shaped tail and wattled neck, often associated with Thanksgiving.

We had roast turkey for dinner on Thanksgiving.

The meat of the turkey, typically cooked and eaten.

I love turkey sandwiches for lunch.

A failure or a flop, particularly in reference to a movie or performance.

The film was a total turkey, receiving terrible reviews from critics.

A term used in the sport of bowling to refer to three strikes in a row.

He bowled a turkey during the tournament and won first place.

verb

To fail miserably or to fall flat, especially in a performance.

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

To mess something up or to make a mistake.

He really turkeyed that presentation.

A person who is acting foolishly.

Stop being such a turkey and just go for it!