duck
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dʌk/
KK: /dʌk/
intransitive verb
Definition
To lower the head or body quickly, often to avoid something or to hide.
Example
He had to duck to avoid hitting his head on the door frame.
Tense Forms
Past: ducked
Past Participle: ducked
Conversation
Did you see that kid duck just in time to avoid the soccer ball?
Yeah, it was impressive how quickly he moved!
I wish I could duck like that during dodgeball.
You'll get better with practice, just keep your eyes open!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dodge
squat
sink
Antonyms
rise
emerge
ascend
noun
Definition
A waterbird with a broad body, short legs, and a flat bill, often found in ponds and lakes.
Example
We saw a duck swimming in the pond.
Conversation
I saw a cute duck at the park yesterday.
Really? What color was it?
It was mostly brown with a little bit of green on its head.
transitive verb
Definition
To lower the body quickly to avoid something or to push something under water.
Example
He ducked to avoid the flying ball.
Tense Forms
Past: ducked
Past Participle: ducked
Conversation
Did you see that kid duck under the swing just in time?
Yeah, that was close! I thought he was going to get hit.
I know! He really had to duck fast to avoid it.
Root Explanation
The word 'duck' originates from Old English 'duce' (meaning to lead), which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*dukan' (meaning to dive or to lower). The term originally referred to the way these birds dive into the water.
Memory Tip
Think of ducks 'diving' into the water — that's why the word 'duck' connects to the idea of lowering or diving.
Visually Confused Words
dusack
doruck
beduck