Definition

To make quick, light touches or bites, often with a beak or a pointed object.

Example

The bird pecked at the seeds on the ground.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how the bird just pecked at the ground?

Yeah, it was looking for food, right?

It was funny how it kept pecking at the same spot.

I guess it must have found something tasty there!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A unit of measurement for dry volume, equal to 8 quarts, used in both British and U.S. systems.

Example

The farmer sold a peck of apples at the market.

Conversation

Did you know a peck is actually a measure of volume?

Yeah, I heard it's equal to eight quarts, right?

Exactly! I found that out while looking up old recipes.

Definition

To strike or touch something lightly, often with a beak or a pointed object, or to kiss someone briefly.

Example

The bird pecked at the seeds on the ground.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see that bird pecking at the ground earlier?

Yeah, it was looking for something to eat, right?

Exactly! I wonder what it was trying to peck at.

Root Explanation

The word 'peck' originates from Middle English 'pecken', which is of uncertain origin but is thought to be imitative of the sound made by a bird pecking. It refers to the action of striking or biting with a beak or pointed object.

Memory Tip

Imagine a bird making a quick, sharp sound as it strikes the ground with its beak — that's what peck means.

Visually Confused Words