Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Fluke: meaning, definitions and examples

🍀
Add to dictionary

fluke

 

[fluːk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

unexpected event

A fluke is something unexpected or accidental, often an occurrence that is surprising or unlikely. In many cases, it refers to a stroke of luck or a fortunate happenstance. This term can also describe an instance where someone or something achieves a successful outcome, often without the necessary skill or planning. Flukes can manifest in various situations, from sports to daily life events.

Synonyms

accident, chance, coincidence, quirk.

Examples of usage

  • Winning the lottery was just a fluke.
  • Her success in the competition was a total fluke.
  • He hit a fluke shot that went in.
  • I found a $20 bill on the street; it was a fluke.
Context #2 | Noun

fish anatomy

In biological terms, a fluke refers to a type of fish or parasitic worm. Specifically, it can describe flatworms belonging to the class Trematoda, which are known as flukes. These organisms often inhabit the internal organs of animals and can lead to infections. The term can also refer to certain species of flatfish, which have elongated bodies and asymmetrical structures.

Synonyms

flatworm, parasite, trematode.

Examples of usage

  • The fluke of the fish was used in a study.
  • Some flukes can be harmful to humans.
  • We spotted a fluke swimming near the shore.
  • Research on flukes is essential for understanding parasitic infections.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'fluke' comes from Old Norse 'flúka', meaning something that overlaps or is flat, which suggests an unexpected result.
  • In nautical terms, 'fluke' refers to the flat part of an anchor which helps it to catch and hold onto the seabed.
  • Originally used in the context of fishing, it describes an accidental catch that is not the target species.

Science

  • In biology, a 'fluke' can refer to a type of parasitic flatworm that lives in the body of other animals, sometimes causing illness.
  • Scientists use the term to describe bizarre evolutionary occurrences, where organisms adapt in unexpected ways to survive.
  • Fluke events in science can refer to rare occurrences in data analysis that lead to significant discoveries or breakthroughs.

Pop Culture

  • In the film industry, a fluke can refer to a breakout success that no one saw coming, exemplified by indie films that go mainstream.
  • The term is popular in sports, where a 'fluke' goal might mean a ball accidentally finding its way into the net, defying expectations.
  • In music, a song that suddenly becomes a hit despite low expectations may be labelled as a fluke, indicating a surprise success.

Psychology

  • The concept of a fluke aligns with the psychological phenomenon of the 'illusion of control', where people believe they can influence random events.
  • In decision-making, overlooking the possibility of flukes can lead to biases, as individuals may not account for chance occurrences.
  • Cognitive biases often make it hard for people to recognize when an event is truly random, which can lead to overconfidence in unlikely predictions.

Literature

  • In storytelling, fluke events often drive the plot forward, introducing twists that can alter character trajectories dramatically.
  • Classic literature frequently uses fluke occurrences as turning points, showcasing serendipity as a theme for character development.
  • Authors may exploit fluke aspects to echo a larger commentary on life’s unpredictability or fate's mysterious ways.

Translations

Translations of the word "fluke" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fluke

🇮🇳 फ्लूक

🇩🇪 Fluke

🇮🇩 fluke

🇺🇦 флук

🇵🇱 fluke

🇯🇵 フルーク

🇫🇷 fluke

🇪🇸 fluke

🇹🇷 fluke

🇰🇷 플루크

🇸🇦 فلوق

🇨🇿 fluke

🇸🇰 fluke

🇨🇳 侥幸

🇸🇮 fluke

🇮🇸 fluke

🇰🇿 флук

🇬🇪 ფლუქი

🇦🇿 fluke

🇲🇽 fluke

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,930, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.