shuttlecock
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈʃʌtəlˌkɒk/
KK: /ˈʃʌtəlˌkɒk/
noun
Definition
A small, lightweight object used in badminton, consisting of a rounded base made of cork or rubber and a conical shape made of feathers or plastic.
Example
She skillfully hit the shuttlecock over the net during the badminton match.
Conversation
Did you see that shuttlecock fly across the court yesterday?
Yeah, it was amazing how high it went!
I really want to improve my skills with the shuttlecock this summer.
You should join me for some practice; it’ll be fun!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bird
birdie
feather
Antonyms
transitive verb
Definition
To throw or send something back and forth in a manner similar to how a shuttlecock is hit in badminton.
Example
They decided to shuttlecock the ball between each other during the game.
Tense Forms
Past: shuttlecocked
Past Participle: shuttlecocked
Conversation
Did you see how I can shuttlecock the ball back and forth with you?
Yeah, you did a great job! It was fun.
I love how we can just shuttlecock like that for hours.
Root Explanation
Shuttlecock → The word is formed from "shuttle" (from Old English *scytel*, meaning a device for weaving or a tool that moves back and forth) and "cock" (from Middle English *cok*, meaning a small bird or a male bird). The term "shuttlecock" refers to the object that moves back and forth in the game of badminton, resembling a bird in flight.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'shuttle' that moves back and forth, like a weaving tool, and a 'cock' that represents a bird. This helps you remember that a shuttlecock is the object that flies in the game, similar to a bird.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.