Suck
Definitions and Meaning in English
- To draw in or inhale something, typically a liquid, through the mouth, often by creating a vacuum.
- To make a sucking sound, typically produced when drawing in air or liquid.
- To be of poor quality or perform badly, especially in informal contexts.
- A slang term used to express dissatisfaction or disappointment with something or someone.
- To extract or consume something in a way that involves drawing it into the mouth or body.
History and Origin
The word “suck” comes from the Old English sūcan, meaning “to suck,” derived from the Proto-Germanic sūkjan. This term has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European sug-, meaning “to suck” or “to draw.” Initially used to describe the act of drawing in liquids or other substances through the mouth, its usage has expanded over time, particularly in slang, to describe poor quality or undesirable actions or situations. The informal meaning emerged in the late 19th to early 20th century in American English.
Detailed Explanation
“Suck” is primarily used to describe the act of drawing in something, typically a liquid, through the mouth by creating a vacuum. This physical action can refer to drinking through a straw, nursing, or other similar processes. The term is also widely used in informal contexts to express dislike or disappointment, such as when someone says “this sucks,” meaning something is unpleasant or undesirable. Over time, the slang usage of “suck” has become more common, often used to describe something perceived as bad or unfortunate. Additionally, in some contexts, “suck” can refer to extracting or consuming substances, like “sucking up” to someone, or being involved in something that requires effort or perseverance.
Example Sentences
- She tried to suck the juice through the straw but it was clogged.
- The baby began to suck from the bottle immediately.
- That movie really sucked; it was boring and predictable.
- He had to suck in his breath when he saw the price of the car.
- It sucks that we have to cancel our plans because of the weather.
- The vacuum cleaner sucks up all the dirt from the floor effortlessly.
- The athlete felt like he sucked after missing the winning shot.
- I had to suck on the cough drop to soothe my throat.
- Don’t suck up to the teacher just to get a better grade.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Inhale – To breathe in, especially referring to drawing in air or liquid, similar to sucking.
- Siphon – To draw or pump liquid, often using suction, in a manner similar to sucking.
- Suckle – To feed by sucking, especially used for feeding babies or animals.
- Absorb – To take in liquid or other substances, typically through a process that can be likened to sucking.
- Draw – To pull or bring in, especially liquid, in a manner similar to sucking.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Vacuum – A device that uses suction, or the act of creating a vacuum to draw things in, similar to sucking.
- Suction – The act of pulling or drawing in by creating a vacuum, directly related to the process of sucking.
- Lick – To pass the tongue over something, which can sometimes involve sucking in the process.
- Breathe – The act of taking air into the lungs, similar to sucking air in through the mouth.
- Savor – To enjoy the taste or experience of something, often involving sucking or drawing in flavor slowly.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Suckling – The act of feeding or drawing milk from the breast, closely related to sucking.
- Chug – To drink something quickly, often with the sucking action, especially large quantities.
- Slurp – To make a noisy sucking sound while drinking, typically liquids.
- Gulp – To swallow something quickly, often with a sucking motion.
- Drain – To remove liquid from something, sometimes involving a sucking action.
Antonyms
- Exhale
- Spit
- Blow
- Release
- Emit