The term "duck arse" is a colloquialism used to describe a hairstyle popular in the 1950s that involves slicking the hair back on the sides while leaving a large quiff at the front. In terms of its spelling, the word "duck" is pronounced as /dʌk/, while "arse" is pronounced as /ɑːs/. The word is spelled in accordance with the standard rules of English spelling for these phonetic sounds, making it easy to understand and pronounce for native English speakers.
"Duck arse" is a slang term often used to describe a particular hairstyle. The term is derived from the resemblance of the hairstyle to the posterior of a duck, with the hair styled in a specific manner.
The hairstyle typically features a short, combed-back, neatly-trimmed hair on the sides and top of the head, while the back section is left longer and styled into a downward-pointing V shape similar to a duck's tail. This creates a distinct and noticeable contrast between the short sides and the longer back, giving the hairstyle its characteristic look.
The duck arse hairstyle gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly among young men. It was frequently associated with the rockabilly and rock 'n' roll subcultures of the time. The style was often complemented by the use of hair products, such as pomades or gels, to achieve a sleek and shiny appearance.
While the term "duck arse" is primarily used to refer to the specific hairstyle, it can also be used more broadly to describe someone with an outdated or unfashionable appearance. It is important to note that slang terms can be subjective and their usage may vary depending on cultural and regional contexts.
The term "duck arse" is a slang phrase primarily used in British English to describe a specific hairstyle known as a 'quiff' or a hairstyle in which the hair is brushed back from the forehead and then turned up and over in a wavy or curved shape at the back, resembling the shape of a duck's backside.
As for the etymology, the word "duck" refers to the animal and "arse" is a British English slang term for "butt" or "rear end". When combined, "duck arse" is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century as an analogy to describe the appearance of the hairstyle, likening it to the shape or curve of a duck's posterior.