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Ducking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฆ†
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ducking

[หˆdสŒkษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

avoiding something

Ducking refers to the action of lowering the body quickly to avoid something that is coming at you, such as an object or a blow. It can also refer to evading a question or situation by suddenly moving out of the way or changing the subject.

Synonyms

crouch, dodge, evade, lower.

Examples of usage

  • He was ducking to avoid the ball during the game.
  • She ducked behind the car when she saw the spray of water.
  • The politician was ducking questions from reporters.
  • He ducked out of the meeting when it got too intense.
Context #2 | Noun

motion or act

Ducking can also refer to the specific act of ducking itself, often used in expressions where someone has to quickly change their position to avoid an impact or confrontation. It signifies a sudden, swift movement.

Synonyms

avert, dodge, swerve.

Examples of usage

  • His ducking saved him from a direct hit.
  • She made a quick ducking movement to the side.
  • The athlete's ducking technique is impressive.
  • His ducking during the fight impressed everyone.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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, โ€˜duckingโ€™ 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.

Origin of 'ducking'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The term 'duck' as a verb originates from the Old English 'ducan', which means 'to lower the head or body quickly'. This term is thought to have originated from the action of ducks that lower their heads to get under water, hence implying a quick motion of lowering oneself. The evolution into the modern form has traced through various forms in Middle English such as 'dukke' and eventually settling into the present form. The idea of 'ducking' has been used both in literal and figurative contexts, extending its usage beyond physical movements to actions such as ducking from questions or responsibilities. The development of the word has coincided with the rise of informal speech where quick evasive actions are communicated succinctly using the term.

Word Frequency Rank

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.