Ducking: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Old English word 'ducian', which means 'to lower the head'.
• It was originally used in English to describe the movement of waterfowl, particularly ducks, as they dive into water.

Pop Culture

• In many cartoons, characters often 'duck' when something is thrown at them, creating a humorous visual effect.
• The phrase 'ducking for cover' is commonly used in action films to depict characters swiftly avoiding danger.

Psychology

• The instinct to duck in response to a threat is linked to the 'fight or flight' response, showcasing our body's natural protective reactions.
• This movement can also indicate avoidance behavior in social situations, where someone might 'duck' away from confrontation.

Sports

• In boxing, ‘ducking’ is a crucial technique where athletes lower their heads to evade punches.
• In football, players often 'duck' to avoid tackles or incoming balls, demonstrating agility.

Everyday Usage

• 'Ducking' is often used in the phrase 'ducking out', which means to exit quickly to avoid a situation.
• People may say they're 'ducking' important meetings, indicating a desire to avoid dealing with specific responsibilities.

Positioned at #24,617, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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