PLUCK AT Meaning and
Definition
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Pluck at is a phrasal verb that conveys the action of pulling or tugging at something, often with quick and vigorous movements. It involves forcefully or abruptly grasping an object or part of it. This action can be done with the fingers, hands, or any appropriate instrument. Plucking at suggests a sense of urgency, sometimes accompanied by a repetitive motion.
The term is commonly used to describe the act of trying to remove or extract something from an item by pulling at it repeatedly. For example, a person might pluck at a loose thread on a garment in an attempt to remove it or pull at a stubborn weed in the garden. It can also refer to the action of wrenching something out of place or trying to dislodge it forcibly.
Metaphorically, pluck at can be used to describe an attempt to grab or seize someone's attention or emotions, usually by making repeated efforts. For instance, a heartfelt story might pluck at a person's heartstrings, eliciting strong emotions. It emphasizes the idea of actively and persistently trying to provoke a response or effect.
Overall, pluck at denotes an action of forcefully pulling, often with the intention of removing or dislodging something, as well as an attempt to captivate or stir emotions through repeated efforts.
Common Misspellings for PLUCK AT
- oluck at
- lluck at
- 0luck at
- pkuck at
- ppuck at
- pouck at
- plyck at
- plhck at
- pljck at
- pl8ck at
- pl7ck at
- pluxk at
- pluvk at
- pluck a
Etymology of PLUCK AT
The word pluck at is a phrase consisting of two words: pluck and at.
- The term pluck dates back to the 14th century derived from the Old English word ploccian, which meant to pluck or pull off. It became more widely used in the 16th century with the meaning of to pull or tuck up or to snatch or remove forcibly.
- The word at is a preposition that originated from the Old English word æt with the same meaning. It has been used for centuries to express proximity, direction, or purpose.
When combined, pluck at generally refers to the act of pulling or tugging at something or making an attempt to obtain or achieve something. The etymology of this phrase lies in the historical development and usage of the individual words pluck and at.
Idioms with the word PLUCK AT
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pluck at sm or sth
To "pluck at someone or something" means to grab, pull, or pluck at someone or something with a sudden, quick movement. This idiom is often used metaphorically to describe someone making persistent or repeated attempts to get someone's attention or to resolve a problem.
Similar spelling words for PLUCK AT
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