Peck at Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To eat small amounts slowly or without interest, often picking at food. Also used when birds touch or bite something with their beaks several times.
Usage & Nuances
'Peck at' is informal; used for both people and animals. Common with food ("peck at your lunch") to show disinterest or pickiness, and for birds touching things with their beaks. Not used for eating large amounts. Not the same as 'pick at' (though similar).
Example Sentences
The bird pecked at the seeds on the ground.
basic
She just pecked at her dinner and didn't eat much.
basic
Children often peck at their food when they aren't hungry.
basic
"Stop pecking at your food and eat properly," her mother said.
natural
He pecked at his sandwich while reading the news.
natural
The chicks pecked at the tiny crumbs on the floor.
natural