Eked: meaning, definitions and examples
๐พ
eked
[ iหk ]
informal usage
To 'eke out' means to make a supply last longer by using it sparingly or to obtain something with great difficulty. It often refers to managing resources in a way that stretches them further than they would normally last. The phrase can also imply earning a living by making do with very little.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- They eked out their savings to last through the winter.
- She managed to eke out an existence on a small salary.
- The farmer eked out a living from the little land he had.
Translations
Translations of the word "eked" in other languages:
๐ต๐น aroma
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคถเคฌเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Duft
๐ฎ๐ฉ aroma
๐บ๐ฆ ะฐัะพะผะฐั
๐ต๐ฑ aromat
๐ฏ๐ต ้ฆใ
๐ซ๐ท arรดme
๐ช๐ธ aroma
๐น๐ท aroma
๐ฐ๐ท ํฅ๊ธฐ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุนุทุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ aroma
๐ธ๐ฐ arรณma
๐จ๐ณ ้ฆๆฐ
๐ธ๐ฎ aroma
๐ฎ๐ธ ilmur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะธัั
๐ฌ๐ช แแ แแแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ aroma
๐ฒ๐ฝ aroma
Word origin
The term 'eke out' has its origins in Middle English, specifically derived from the Old Norse word 'yka', which means 'to increase' or 'to supplement'. Over time, the phrase evolved into its modern usage. In the 14th century, it began to appear in English literature, often in the context of managing limited resources or extending a meager existence. The concept of eking out something has remained relevant through the centuries, reflecting human resilience and the necessity of frugality. The word 'eke' was even used historically in heraldry and law, indicating the act of reaching or adding something, which further contributed to its semantic development. Today, it reflects not only the practical aspect of resource management but also the creativity and determination often required to thrive under constraining circumstances.