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Pecked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pecked

[pษ›kt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

bird behavior

The term 'pecked' refers to the action of a bird using its beak to hit or pick at something. This behavior is often associated with feeding, where birds peck at seeds, insects, or other food items. 'Pecked' can also describe interactions among birds, such as establishing dominance or communicating. The action can vary in intensity, from gentle pecking to more aggressive pecks depending on the situation.

Synonyms

bitten, nibbled, struck, tapped.

Examples of usage

  • The woodpecker pecked at the tree trunk.
  • Chickens pecked at the ground looking for food.
  • The hen pecked her chicks gently.
  • The crow pecked at the shiny object.
  • Doves pecked at the breadcrumbs scattered on the path.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Birds often peck to eat seeds, insects, or fruit, using their beaks like tools to access food.
  • Different bird species have unique pecking styles; for instance, woodpeckers peck to drill into trees for insects.
  • Pecking can also be a way for birds to communicate with each other, establishing territory or expressing aggression.

Literature

  • Famous children's stories often illustrate birds pecking, symbolizing playfulness or curiosity.
  • In poetry, pecking can represent small, persistent actions leading to greater results, similar to drops of water shaping stone.
  • Writers have used pecking metaphorically to describe repeated efforts in daily life or the journey towards goals.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the act of pecking can symbolize diligence or the gradual attainment of goals.
  • Pecking is often associated with a nurturing aspect, as mother birds peck gently at their chicksโ€™ beaks to feed them.
  • Pecked patterns are common in traditional art, reflecting nature's influence on many creative expressions.

Modern Usage

  • In contemporary slang, to 'peck' someone can mean to pinch or to lightly annoy, especially in a playful context.
  • Pecked images have made their way into digital art, depicting pixelation or small, repetitive marks as a texture.
  • In cooking, a 'peck' is also a measurement, showing how the word has multiple meanings despite its original context.

Origin of 'pecked'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Old English 'pรฆccan,' which means to strike or to rap.
  • It was used in Middle English as 'pecken,' often referring to birds striking with their beaks.
  • Similar words exist in other languages, such as the German 'pickt,' which also means to peck.

The word 'peck' has its roots in Middle English, derived from the verb 'peckien', which means to strike or hit. It is thought to have come from the Old English 'peccan', which holds a similar meaning. This original term has connections to various Germanic languages, reflecting a common linguistic ancestry. Over time, 'peck' evolved, adopting a more specific association with birds as it became apparent that various bird species frequently engaged in this behavior. The transition from a general term for striking or hitting to a more specific avian action likely resulted from the prominence of birds in the lives of early English speakers. As language evolved, 'peck' broadened its usage in literature and common speech, leading to the formation of its past participle 'pecked' as we use it today.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,226, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.