How Do You Spell PECKS AT?

Pronunciation: [pˈɛks at] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "pecks at" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, "pecks," is spelled with the phonemes /pɛks/ which represent the sound of the letter p followed by the vowel sound e as in "bed," and the consonant sound k. The second word, "at," is spelled with the phonemes /æt/ which represent the vowel sound a as in "cat," and the consonant sound t. Together, these phonemes form the pronunciation of "pecks at."

PECKS AT Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "pecks at" typically refers to a repetitive action of light tapping or picking at something, often done with quick and small movements, resembling the pecking behavior of birds. It involves gentle and intermittent contact, as if repeatedly hitting or nibbling on a surface.

    This expression can have both literal and metaphorical meanings. In a literal sense, "pecks at" can describe the action of a bird pecking or poking a surface with its beak, such as when a chicken pecks at its food or a woodpecker pecks at a tree trunk for insects. It implies a series of successive taps, typically in a somewhat random or scattered pattern.

    Metaphorically, "pecks at" suggests a similar action, but beyond the physical realm. It refers to repeated attempts at dealing with a problem or resolving issues in a hesitant or cautious manner. For example, if someone "pecks at" a task, it means they tackle it slowly or tentatively, making only partial or ineffective progress. Similarly, someone might "peck at" a question or an issue, indicating their gradual exploration or examination without fully engaging or committing to finding a solution.

    Overall, "pecks at" captures the essence of light, repetitive, and sometimes indecisive actions used to address or interact with something, whether it be in a physical or metaphorical context.

Common Misspellings for PECKS AT

  • oecks at
  • lecks at
  • -ecks at
  • 0ecks at
  • pwcks at
  • pscks at
  • pdcks at
  • prcks at
  • p4cks at
  • p3cks at
  • pexks at
  • pevks at
  • pefks at
  • pedks at
  • pecjs at
  • pecms at
  • pecls at
  • pecos at
  • pecis at

Etymology of PECKS AT

The word "pecks" is derived from the Old English word "pēcan", which means "to pick or pluck". This term was used in reference to birds pecking or poking at something with their beaks. Over time, the phrase "pecks at" emerged, indicating the action of pecking repeatedly at a particular object or area.

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: