Pronunciation: [ˈiːks] (IPA) 
The word "ekes" is spelled with the letters E-K-E-S. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /iːks/. The first sound is a long "e" sound, followed by a "k" sound and then an "s" sound. The word comes from the Old English word "ēacian" which means to increase or add to. Today, the word is most commonly used in the expression "to eke out a living," which means to barely manage to make enough money to survive.
Eked is the past tense and past participle of the verb "eke," which means to supplement, stretch, or barely make enough to survive. The term "ekes" is often used to describe the act of making something last a little longer or making do with only a small amount. It implies a resourcefulness or frugality in order to sustain oneself or achieve a particular goal.
In a literal sense, "ekes" can refer to extending the duration or usability of a limited supply or resource. For example, someone might "ekes out" their food supplies by rationing or finding creative ways to utilize leftovers. Similarly, it can describe making a small amount of money or income suffice for the necessities of life. People who "eke out" a living often find themselves in vulnerable or precarious financial situations.
Metaphorically, "ekes" can describe a person carefully managing or conserving intangible resources such as time or energy. It suggests a methodical approach to getting by or making progress in challenging circumstances. Additionally, "ekes" can be used to describe a person achieving something through persistence, despite facing numerous obstacles or setbacks. In this context, it reflects determination and a willingness to make the most out of limited opportunities.
Overall, "ekes" encompasses the act of working with what is available, managing resources wisely, and persevering in difficult situations to accomplish a desired outcome.
The word "ekes" is derived from the Middle English term "eken", which can be traced back to the Old English word "ēacan". In turn, this Old English word comes from the West Germanic verb "aukanan" and the Proto-Germanic word "*aukaną". The original meaning and usage of "ekes" related to the act of increasing, enlarging, or augmenting something. Over time, its meaning evolved, and today it generally refers to making a meager living or managing to subsist with difficulty.
