Pronunciation: [ˈiːks ˈa͡ʊt ɐ lˈɪvɪŋ] (IPA) 
The phrase "ekes out a living" means to barely scrape by or make a meager existence. The word "ekes" is spelled with the IPA transcription /iːks/. The "e" is pronounced like the "ee" in "tree," and the "k" is a hard K sound. The "-es" ending is pronounced with a long E sound followed by an S sound. The spelling of "ekes" reflects its Middle English origins and is used less frequently in modern English vocabulary.
To eke out a living refers to the endeavor of surviving or subsisting with great difficulty, usually by making the most of limited resources or opportunities. This idiomatic expression implies that the person's income or means of support is inadequate or insufficient, requiring them to utilize various strategies or work extremely hard to make ends meet.
The phrase "ekes out" denotes the act of stretching limited resources to their maximum capacity or extracting the bare minimum necessary for survival. It suggests a constant struggle, often involving meager earnings from low-paying jobs or irregular sources of income. Individuals who eke out a living typically find themselves in precarious financial situations, often straddling the line between poverty and economic stability.
This idiom also encompasses the notion of making the best out of challenging circumstances. It encapsulates the relentless effort and perseverance needed to survive under adverse conditions. Those who eke out a living often engage in multiple jobs, cut back on expenses, or explore various income-generating activities to make their ends meet. They may have little room for luxury or leisure due to their tight financial constraints.
Overall, "eke out a living" characterizes a life where every penny earned is a vital resource, and the struggle for survival is a constant battle against hardship and scarcity.
