The phrase "tucker out" is commonly used to describe the sense of exhaustion or fatigue that occurs after a long day. In phonetic terms, the word "tucker" is pronounced as "tʌkər," with an unstressed "u" sound and a central vowel "ə" in the second syllable. The "out" portion of the phrase is pronounced with an "ow" sound like in the word "cow," followed by a voiceless "t" sound. The phrase itself is a colloquialism, often heard in American English, and likely originated in the 19th century.
The phrase "tucker out" is an idiomatic expression which means to exhaust or tire out someone or something after intense physical or mental effort. It is commonly used to describe the state of being extremely fatigued or worn out.
When referring to an individual, "tucker out" implies that they have reached a point of complete exhaustion, often as a result of prolonged activity or excessive exertion. This can be physical exhaustion, such as after participating in a physically demanding sport or completing a long and strenuous task. It can also refer to mental exhaustion, particularly after engaging in intense mental work or problem-solving activities.
In the context of objects or machinery, "tucker out" suggests that they have become worn out or inoperable due to prolonged use or excessive strain placed upon them. It signifies that the item has reached a point where it can no longer function properly or requires substantial repair or replacement.
Overall, "tucker out" conveys a sense of extreme tiredness or depletion of energy, either in reference to individuals or objects. The phrase originated from the term "tuckered," which means exhausted or worn out, possibly derived from the word "tuck," referring to the act of pulling or tightening something.
The phrase "tucker out" originated in American English during the mid-19th century. It evolved from the word "tucker", which was used as a verb meaning "to tire" or "to exhaust". The word "tucker" itself likely comes from the Old English term "tucian", meaning "to torment" or "to tire". Over time, "tucker" gained the additional sense of "to tuck in" or "to fold or plait", which expanded the phrase "tucker out" to mean getting physically exhausted or worn out.