noun
pecking
PEH-kihng
Pecking (noun) means the action of striking or picking repeatedly with a beak or pointed tool. Example: “The woodpecker's pecking echoed through the forest.”
noun
1
The action of striking or picking repeatedly with a beak or pointed tool.
"The woodpecker's pecking echoed through the forest."
How to use pecking
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe act of pecking — repeatedly striking with a beak or point.
Common mistake
"Pecking order" (social hierarchy) is by far the most common use of this word today, more than the literal bird action.
Common pairings
pecking order
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Word forms
- Plural
- peckings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The woodpecker's _____ echoed through the forest.
Rhymes for pecking
See all rhymes for pecking →Frequently asked questions
What does “pecking” mean?
The word “pecking” means the action of striking or picking repeatedly with a beak or pointed tool. In plain terms, the act of pecking — repeatedly striking with a beak or point.
How do you pronounce “pecking”?
“Pecking” is pronounced PEH-kihng (/ˈpɛkɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “pecking” in a sentence?
Here is “pecking” used in a sentence: “The woodpecker's pecking echoed through the forest.”
What part of speech is “pecking”?
“Pecking” is a noun.
