DUCK Meaning and
Definition
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Duck can be defined as both a noun and a verb, with slightly different meanings attributed to each.
As a noun, duck refers to a type of aquatic bird belonging to the Anatidae family, characterized by a broad, flat bill, webbed feet, and a streamlined body. They are found in both fresh and saltwater and are known for their ability to swim and dive. Ducks are often associated with wetlands and are popular subjects in various art forms. They come in a variety of species, including mallards, wood ducks, and teals.
As a verb, duck has multiple definitions. It can mean to lower one's head or body quickly, often as a defensive reflex or to avoid something. For example, one might duck to avoid being hit by a flying object or to evade an attack. Duck can also mean to move with a quick, lowering motion, such as ducking under a low-hanging branch. Additionally, the verb duck can signify deliberately avoiding or evading something, such as ducking responsibility or ducking a question.
In a figurative sense, the term "duck" is also used in idiomatic expressions, such as "like water off a duck's back," which means to be unaffected or undisturbed by criticism or negative experiences. Overall, the word duck encompasses both a specific type of bird and a range of actions and associations related to quick, low movements or evasive maneuvers.
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• A well-known water-fowl; a kind of canvas; a vulgar term of endearment; a quick inclination of the head, resembling the motion of a duck's head In water.
• To plunge or dip among water, and then withdraw, as the head; to stoop; to bow.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DUCK *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DUCK
Etymology of DUCK
The word "duck" originated from the Old English word "duce" or "duce" which later evolved into "duc" in Middle English. It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word "dūkaz" which means "diver" or "one who dives". This is likely because ducks are known for their ability to dive into water. The word "duce/duc" eventually became "duck" in Modern English, and has been used to refer to these aquatic birds since ancient times.
Idioms with the word DUCK
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duck soup
The idiom "duck soup" is often used to refer to something that is very easy or simple to accomplish. It suggests that the task is so effortless that it can be compared to eating a bowl of soup made from ducks, which would not present any challenge or difficulty.
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lame duck
The idiom "lame duck" refers to a person or group that is in a position of power but has limited influence or effectiveness, usually because their term is ending or because they are perceived as weak or ineffective. It is commonly used to describe politicians or leaders who are in their final term or are nearing the end of their tenure.
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duck face
The idiom "duck face" refers to a facial expression or pose typically made for photographs, where the individual puckers or pouts their lips in a manner that resembles the beak of a duck. This expression is often seen as an attempt to appear attractive or alluring, but it has been satirized and is often considered unflattering or comical.
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duck out
The idiom "duck out" means to leave or exit quickly and abruptly, often in order to avoid a situation or responsibility. It implies a sudden and sometimes sneakily departure.
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duck test
The idiom "duck test" refers to a form of abductive reasoning, where one makes an assumption based on observable characteristics or behaviors. It suggests that if something looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it is most likely a duck. In other words, if the features or qualities of something or someone easily match a well-known or recognized type, then they are likely that entity, even if it has not been explicitly verified.
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golden duck
The idiom "golden duck" refers to the occurrence in sports, particularly cricket, when a batsman is dismissed without scoring any runs on the very first ball they face. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who fails or is unsuccessful at something right from the start.
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mud duck
The idiom "mud duck" typically refers to a person or thing that is unattractive or dirty. It is often used as a slang term to describe someone who is not physically appealing or someone who is unkempt or untidy.
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odd duck
The idiom "odd duck" refers to a person who is considered unique, peculiar, or unconventional compared to others in a certain group or society. This expression is often used to describe someone who behaves or thinks differently, standing out from the norm.
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duck and dive
The idiom "duck and dive" generally refers to evasive or cunning behavior in order to avoid difficulties, conflicts, or problems. It suggests cleverly navigating through challenging situations or swiftly changing one's course to avoid confrontation or negative consequences.
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break your duck
The idiom "break your duck" originates from the game of cricket and is used metaphorically. It means to achieve a significant success or overcome a challenge for the first time. Similar to scoring one's first run (1) in cricket, breaking your duck refers to ending a streak of failures or achieving a long-awaited victory.
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like or as a duck to water
The idiom "like or as a duck to water" is used to describe a person who quickly and easily adapts to a new situation or activity, as if they were naturally suited for it. It suggests that the person displays natural comfort, ease, and proficiency in their new endeavor, just as a duck does when gliding effortlessly through water.
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a dead duck
The idiom "a dead duck" refers to something or someone that is doomed, failed, or no longer useful or relevant. It typically describes a person, project, or situation that is beyond recovery or has no chance of success.
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duck and cover
The idiom "duck and cover" refers to the action of crouching down and seeking shelter, often used in response to a perceived threat or danger. Originally, "duck and cover" gained popularity during the Cold War era when it was taught as a safety measure for individuals to protect themselves during potential nuclear attacks. It symbolizes the act of taking quick action to minimize exposure and potential harm in a dangerous situation.
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duck out (of smw)
The idiom "duck out (of smw)" means to leave or escape from a situation, often sneakily or unexpectedly. It implies quickly and discreetly withdrawing oneself from an event, commitment, or responsibility.
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like a duck to water
The idiom "like a duck to water" means that someone quickly and easily adapts to or learns a new situation or skill, as effortlessly as a duck takes to swimming in water.
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take to sth like a duck to water
The idiom "take to something like a duck to water" means to rapidly and easily become skilled or comfortable in a new activity or situation. It suggests that someone has a natural affinity or talent for a particular thing, adapting effortlessly and demonstrating a high level of competence.
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break (one's) duck
To "break one's duck" is an idiom often used in the context of sports or games, particularly cricket and pool/billiards, and it means to achieve the first success, victory, or accomplishment after a series of unsuccessful attempts or failures. It is derived from the notion of a duck being a score of zero in cricket, and "breaking" this represents getting off the mark or opening one's account. The idiom is also used more generally to refer to breaking one's bad luck or a streak of misfortune.
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play duck and drakes
The idiom "play duck and drakes" refers to the act of being frivolous or reckless with money or resources, typically by spending or wasting them in a careless manner. It implies a lack of responsibility or consideration for the consequences of one's actions, similar to skipping stones across the water without worrying about the value or impact of each throw.
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duck out (of sth)
The idiom "duck out (of sth)" means to discreetly or hastily leave or escape from a particular situation or event, often without explanation or permission. It implies avoiding involvement or responsibility in a clever or sneaky manner.
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a lame duck
The idiom "a lame duck" refers to a person or thing that is incapacitated or ineffective, usually because they are in a position of authority or responsibility but are nearing the end of their term or tenure. It commonly describes a politician or leader who is nearing the end of their term and is seen as having diminished power or influence.
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like a dying duck in a thunderstorm
The idiom "like a dying duck in a thunderstorm" is a metaphorical expression used to describe someone who is in a state of extreme distress, helplessness, or discomfort. It suggests that the person is overwhelmed by their circumstances and unable to cope effectively, much like a duck struggling to survive during a thunderstorm where it is vulnerable and out of its element.
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Lord love a duck!
The idiom "Lord love a duck!" is an exclamation of surprise, frustration, or perplexity. It is used to convey astonishment or disbelief in a lighthearted or humorous way.
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a sitting duck/target
The idiom "a sitting duck/target" refers to someone or something that is easily or vulnerably exposed to danger or attack, with little or no chance of evading or defending against it.
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as a duck takes to water
The idiom "as a duck takes to water" means to be very skilled, comfortable, or natural in doing something, as if it comes instinctively or effortlessly. It implies that the person or thing adapts easily to a particular situation or activity, just as a duck is naturally at ease in water.
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(take to something) like a duck to water
The definition of the idiom "(take to something) like a duck to water" means that someone quickly and easily becomes proficient or adapts to a new task, skill, or situation. It implies that they have a natural affinity or talent for it, much like a duck's natural ability to swim in water.
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If it looks like a duck and walks etc. like a duck, it is a duck
The idiom "If it looks like a duck and walks like a duck, it is a duck" means that if something has all the characteristics or qualities typically associated with a particular thing or category, then it can be identified as such without further confusion or speculation. It implies that appearances and observable behaviors are strong indicators of an object's true nature or identity.
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sitting duck
The idiom "sitting duck" refers to a person or thing that is easy or vulnerable to being attacked or taken advantage of. It suggests that the person or thing is in a defenseless or exposed position, making them an easy target.
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If it looks like a duck and walks/quack/flies etc. like a duck, it is a duck.
The expression "If it looks like a duck and walks/quack/flies etc. like a duck, it is a duck" is an idiomatic phrase primarily used to imply that the simplest explanation or interpretation of something is likely to be true. It suggests that if something appears to possess all the characteristics or qualities typically associated with a certain thing, then it can be considered that thing without further analysis or speculation. Essentially, it conveys the idea of relying on one's initial observations to determine the true nature of something.
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strange duck
The idiom "strange duck" is used to describe someone who is eccentric, odd, or peculiar in behavior or personality. It refers to an individual who is different from others and displays unconventional or peculiar characteristics. This phrase is typically used in a lighthearted or playful manner, without intending to be overly negative or critical.
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duck out (of something)
The idiom "duck out (of something)" means to leave or exit a situation or place quickly and often stealthily, especially to avoid being noticed or to evade responsibilities or obligations. It implies a hasty or furtive departure.
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duck down
The idiom "duck down" is commonly used to describe the action of quickly and deliberately lowering one's head or body in order to avoid being hit by something or to avoid a dangerous situation.
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all duck or no dinner
The idiom "all duck or no dinner" means that one must act or perform perfectly, or achieve a specific goal, in order to receive a reward or desired outcome. It implies that failure or subpar performance will result in no reward or satisfaction.
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a sitting duck
The idiom "a sitting duck" refers to a person or thing that is in a vulnerable position, easily targeted or easily taken advantage of.
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take to like a duck to water
The idiom "take to like a duck to water" means to quickly and easily learn or adapt to something new or unfamiliar. It implies that a person or an animal has a natural skill or affinity for the activity or situation they are encountering, just as ducks are known to be naturally adept swimmers.
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queer duck
The idiom "queer duck" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is eccentric, unconventional, or peculiar. It typically refers to an individual who may exhibit behavior, interests, or preferences that deviate from societal norms or expectations. It can also be used to describe someone who is strange or unusual in their appearance or mannerisms.
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be duck soup
The idiom "be duck soup" means that something is very easy or effortless to accomplish. It suggests that the task or situation is simple and requires little or no effort.
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if it looks like a duck and walks like a duck, it is a duck
The idiom "if it looks like a duck and walks like a duck, it is a duck" means that if something appears or behaves a certain way, it is most likely what it appears to be. It implies that the most obvious explanation or interpretation is usually the correct one.
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dead duck
The idiom "dead duck" refers to a person, situation, or thing that is deemed to be worthless, doomed, or bound to fail. It typically implies that there is no hope or possibility for success or survival.
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duck-squeezer
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happy as a duck in Arizona
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milk a duck
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water off a duck's back
The idiom "water off a duck's back" means something that has no effect or impact on someone, similar to how water easily rolls off the waterproof feathers of a duck. It can describe a situation where criticism, insults, or negative remarks are not taken to heart or affect someone's emotions.
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like water off a duck's back
To describe something as rolling off like water off a duck's back means that it is having no effect or impact on someone, as if they are unaffected or unperturbed by it.
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be (like) water off a duck's back
This idiom means that criticism or negative comments have no effect on someone. Just like water rolls off a duck's back, the person is unbothered and unaffected by the negativity.
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duck-butt
The term "duck-butt" is often used informally to describe someone who appears to be overly cautious, paranoid, or constantly on the alert for potential dangers. It may also refer to someone who is overly critical or nitpicky.
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Fuck a duck!
The idiom "Fuck a duck!" is an exclamation of frustration, disbelief, or shock. It is used to express extreme surprise or irritation about a situation.
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be water off a duck's back
To say that something is "water off a duck's back" means that it has no effect or impact on someone. Just like how water rolls off a duck's waterproof feathers, the person is unaffected or unbothered by the situation or criticism.
Similar spelling words for DUCK
- deck,
- ducks,
- Dux,
- DUCA,
- buck,
- tuck,
- duct,
- puck,
- DUES,
- duce,
- suck,
- dusk,
- duse,
- ducky,
- dug,
- dunk,
- duke,
- dusky,
- dock,
- luck.
Conjugate verb Duck
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have ducked
you
would have ducked
he/she/it
would have ducked
we
would have ducked
they
would have ducked
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been ducking
you
would have been ducking
he/she/it
would have been ducking
we
would have been ducking
they
would have been ducking
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would duck
you
would duck
he/she/it
would duck
we
would duck
they
would duck
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be ducking
you
would be ducking
he/she/it
would be ducking
we
would be ducking
they
would be ducking
FUTURE
I
will duck
you
will duck
he/she/it
will duck
we
will duck
they
will duck
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be ducking
you
will be ducking
he/she/it
will be ducking
we
will be ducking
they
will be ducking
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have ducked
you
will have ducked
he/she/it
will have ducked
we
will have ducked
they
will have ducked
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been ducking
you
will have been ducking
he/she/it
will have been ducking
we
will have been ducking
they
will have been ducking
IMPERATIVE
we
Let´s duck
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was ducking
you
were ducking
he/she/it
was ducking
we
were ducking
they
were ducking
PAST PARTICIPLE
ducked
PAST PERFECT
I
had ducked
you
had ducked
he/she/it
had ducked
we
had ducked
they
had ducked
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been ducking
you
had been ducking
he/she/it
had been ducking
we
had been ducking
they
had been ducking
PRESENT
I
duck
you
duck
he/she/it
ducks
we
duck
they
duck
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am ducking
you
are ducking
he/she/it
is ducking
we
are ducking
they
are ducking
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
ducking
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have ducked
you
have ducked
he/she/it
has ducked
we
have ducked
they
have ducked
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been ducking
you
have been ducking
he/she/it
has been ducking
we
have been ducking
they
have been ducking
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
duck
SIMPLE PAST
I
ducked
you
ducked
he/she/it
ducked
we
ducked
they
ducked
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