Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Peck Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐦
Add to dictionary

peck

[pek ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

bird behavior

A quick, small kiss or bite with the beak.

Synonyms

bite, kiss.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
peck

This word is often used to describe a quick, light kiss or a bird tapping something lightly with its beak. It's generally informal.

  • She gave him a peck on the cheek before leaving.
  • The bird gave a quick peck at the seed.
kiss

This word is used to describe the action of pressing one's lips against another person or object as a sign of love or greeting. It is a straightforward term that does not carry any particular connotation.

  • They shared a passionate kiss.
  • She blew him a kiss across the room.
bite

This word refers to someone or something using their teeth to cut into something. It can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts and sometimes can have a negative connotation when referring to aggressive actions.

  • The dog gave the stranger a hard bite.
  • He took a big bite of the apple.

Examples of usage

  • The bird gave a gentle peck to its mate.
  • She felt a peck on her cheek from the playful parrot.
Context #2 | Noun

unit of measurement

A dry measure equal to 8 quarts or one quarter of a bushel.

Synonyms

measure, quantity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
peck

This term is less commonly used and refers to a dry measure of capacity, mostly in agriculture, equivalent to 8 dry quarts or 1/4 of a bushel. It is also used to suggest a small quantity or amount. Can have a slightly old-fashioned tone.

  • He bought a peck of apples at the market.
  • She only ate a peck of the food.
measure

Used in formal or general contexts to indicate the act of determining the size, amount, or degree of something using a standard unit.

  • They measure the length of the room.
  • The tailor will measure you for a suit.
quantity

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate an amount or number of something. It’s a neutral term suitable for various subjects.

  • A large quantity of water is needed for the experiment.
  • Can you count the quantity of books on the shelf?

Examples of usage

  • She bought a peck of apples at the market.
  • The recipe called for two pecks of flour.
Context #3 | Verb

bird behavior

To strike or pick up something with the beak.

Synonyms

pick, strike.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
peck

Identical to the first 'peck' - often referring to the same contexts. In a practical sense, this appears to be a typographical repetition.

  • Same as the first entry
strike

Used to describe hitting something or someone forcefully, often with an arm, hand, or weapon. It can have a negative connotation if it involves aggression or violence.

  • He struck the ball with his bat
  • The workers went on strike due to unfair wages
pick

This word is used to describe the action of selecting or choosing something, or using fingers or a tool to remove or gather something.

  • She picked a flower from the garden
  • He picked his favorite book from the shelf

Examples of usage

  • The chickens were pecking at the grains on the ground.
  • The woodpecker pecked at the tree trunk for insects.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Birds typically peck to find food, demonstrating their foraging behavior.
  • Pecking can also be a form of communication among birds, using their beaks to show dominance or affection.
  • Different bird species have varying pecking styles, with some having strong beaks for cracking nuts, while others are more delicate.

Cultural References

  • In literature, pecking often symbolizes curiosity, as in the phrase 'curiosity killed the cat' — pecking more to explore.
  • The phrase 'pecking order' describes a hierarchy in social structures, originating from the behavior of birds establishing dominance.
  • In children's stories, pecking is sometimes depicted humorously, like a chicken pecking at a playful character.

Science

  • Studies show that birds can remember where they've pecked for food, highlighting their impressive memory.
  • Some birds use their pecking actions to create tools or to nurture their young, demonstrating intelligence and adaptability.
  • Pecking is a significant factor in the feeding habits of many species, affecting their dietary choices and survival.

Psychology

  • The term peck may also relate to behaviorism, where pecking can be a learned response to stimuli in animals.
  • In social contexts, excessive pecking can be seen as a sign of anxiety or stress among birds, reflecting their emotional states.
  • Symbols of pecking can represent minor conflicts in human relationships, similar to how birds assert dominance.

Origin of 'peck'

Main points about word origin

  • This word comes from the Old English 'peccean,' used in the 14th century.
  • Originally, it could refer to the act of biting or taking small bits of something.
  • The phrase 'to peck away' means to gradually remove or reduce, showing the word's versatility.

The word 'peck' originated from Old English 'pician' meaning 'to prick' or 'to pierce'. Over time, it evolved to represent a quick kiss or bite with the beak, as well as a unit of measurement. The verb form of 'peck' also relates to bird behavior, reflecting the action of striking or picking up something with the beak.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,138, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.