How Do You Spell DUCKLING?

Pronunciation: [dˈʌklɪŋ] (IPA)

The word "duckling" is pronounced as /ˈdʌklɪŋ/. The first syllable "duk" is pronounced as "duhk" with the "u" sound like in "bump" (short U). The second syllable "ling" is pronounced as "ling" with the "i" sound like in "sit" (short I). The spelling of this word is derived from its origin, the Old English word "duce" which means "duck". The suffix "-ling" is added to indicate a young or small version of the animal, resulting in "duckling".

DUCKLING Meaning and Definition

1. A duckling is a noun that refers to a young or baby duck. Typically characterized by its small size, downy feathers, and adorable appearance, a duckling is the offspring of a female duck, also known as a hen or duck, and a male duck, commonly referred to as a drake. They are usually found near water bodies such as ponds, lakes, or rivers, where their parents keep a vigilant eye on them.

   Ducklings possess distinct physical features like a bill or beak, webbed feet, and wings that are not fully developed. They have a soft and fluffy down covering their bodies that gradually turns into feathers as they mature. These vibrant and buoyant creatures exhibit a charming innocence and vulnerability, reflecting their early stages of life.

   Ducklings are known for their playful and curious nature, often seen actively exploring their surroundings while following the lead of their mother duck. They rely on their parents for protection, guidance, and nourishment as they grow. With an innate ability to swim, ducklings take to water easily, paddling and bobbing along under the watchful eye of their parents.

   The term "duckling" is also used metaphorically to denote someone who is young, naive, or vulnerable, evoking a sense of innocence or being new to a particular domain. This frequently carries a positive or endearing connotation, celebrating the beginner's spirit or a fresh start.

2. A young duck.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for DUCKLING

• buckeling
• decling
• deakling
• buckleing
• suckeling
• cyckling
• ducklyn
• kackling
• duckin
• dukeing
• decaling
• bucling
• durking
• fuckling
• ducklinng
• dwckling
• nuckling
• ockling
• dukleing
• dukkeling
• Dukaling
• Nuckeing
• Deceling

Etymology of DUCKLING

The word "duckling" comes from the Middle English term "dukling", derived from the Old English word "duc-ling", which means a young duck. The Old English term "duc" originally referred to a duck, and the suffix "-ling" was used to denote something as small or young. Over time, "duckling" became the commonly used term for a young duck.

Idioms with the word DUCKLING

• an ugly duckling The idiomatic expression "an ugly duckling" refers to an individual, thing, or entity that initially appears unattractive, unremarkable, or undesirable but later transforms into something beautiful, successful, or impressive. The phrase is derived from Hans Christian Andersen's fairytale "The Ugly Duckling" where the main character, a swan, is initially perceived as an odd-looking duckling but ultimately grows into a majestic swan, symbolizing personal growth, transformation, or potential unrealized at first sight.
• ugly duckling The idiom "ugly duckling" refers to a person or thing that initially appears unattractive or unimpressive but later develops or transforms into something beautiful, successful, or admirable.

Similar spelling words for DUCKLING

• docking,
• tackling,
• Dulling,
• Tucking,
• Dueling,
• Buckling,
• tickling,
• ducking,
• Decking.

Plural form of DUCKLING is DUCKLINGS