duck
duck Lexical Profile
duck Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A common aquatic bird of the family Anatidae, typically smaller than a swan or goose, having a broad flat bill, short legs, and webbed feet, found in both freshwater and marine habitats worldwide.
"A flock of wild ducks glided peacefully across the surface of the pond."
The rich, dark, flavorful meat of a domestic or wild duck, widely prepared in culinary traditions by roasting, braising, or curing.
"The restaurant's signature dish is crispy roasted duck served with a plum glaze."
A quick lowering of the head or body to avoid being hit or seen.
"With a quick duck of his head, he avoided the low-hanging tree branch."
A strong, tightly woven cotton or linen fabric, lighter than canvas, used for workwear, sails, and tents.
"The artist stretched a heavy piece of cotton duck over the wooden frame."
British A batsman's score of zero in the game of cricket.
"The opening batsman was dismissed for a duck on the very first ball of the match."
• verb
To lower the head or body quickly to avoid a blow, an obstacle, or being seen.
"She had to duck her head to pass through the low doorway of the historic cottage."
To evade or avoid a duty, question, or responsibility.
"The spokesperson was accused of trying to duck difficult questions during the press conference."
To plunge or submerge someone or something briefly under water.
"The children laughed as they tried to duck each other in the swimming pool."
• Rhymes for duck
Word Origin & Etymology
The noun derives from Old English 'duce', literally meaning 'a diver', related to the Germanic verb *dukan ('to duck, dive'), which replaced the older Old English word for the bird, 'ened'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.