Ducks: meaning, definitions and examples
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ducks
[ dÊŒks ]
water birds
Ducks are waterfowl birds that belong to the family Anatidae. They are characterized by their broad bodies, relatively short necks, and flat, rounded bills. Ducks are commonly found in both freshwater and saltwater environments and are known for their quacking vocalizations.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The ducks in the pond are quacking happily.
- We saw a family of ducks swimming in the lake.
- Ducks often forage for food along the riverbank.
avoid
To duck means to lower the body quickly, typically to avoid something. This action can be used both literally, such as ducking under a low object, and metaphorically, like ducking responsibilities.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He had to duck to avoid the low-hanging branch.
- She tried to duck out of the meeting.
- The dog ducked under the fence.
Etymology
The word 'duck' comes from the Old English word 'duce,' which means 'to dive' or 'to pull under.' This reflects the behavior of ducks when they feed, as they often submerge their heads or bodies in the water to forage for food. The term has Germanic roots, with similar words found in Dutch ('duik') and German ('tauchen'), also relating to the concept of diving. Historically, ducks have been domesticated for their meat and eggs, leading to a significant cultural and agricultural role. In various cultures, ducks are associated with different meanings, from symbolizing adaptability and resourcefulness to being seen as a source of nourishment.