peck
word
/ˈpɛk/
pek
/pˈɛk/
pek
Definition
To hit or pick up something with a beak, like a bird does; also, a quick and light kiss.
Usage & Nuances
Used both literally (birds, chickens) and figuratively (a quick kiss, usually on the cheek or lips). Common in 'a peck on the cheek.' Not to be confused with 'pick' or 'poke.' Can be a verb or a noun.
Spanish: picotear - beso rápidoPortuguese (BR): bicar - selinho (beijo rápido)Portuguese (PT): bicar - selinhoChinese (Simplified): 啄 - 轻吻Chinese (Traditional): 啄 - 輕吻Hindi: चोंच मारना - हल्का चुंबनArabic: ينقر - قبلة سريعةBengali: ঠোকরানো - চুমু (হালকা)Russian: клевать - чмок (лёгкий поцелуй)Japanese: ついばむ - 軽いキスVietnamese: mổ - hôn nhẹKorean: 쪼다 - 가벼운 키스Turkish: gagalamak - hafif öpücükUrdu: چونچ مارنا - ہلکی چٹکی (چومنا)Indonesian: mematuk - ciuman ringan
Example Sentences
Chickens use their beaks to peck food.
basic
She just gave me a little peck—nothing romantic.
natural
The woodpecker pecked holes all over the tree.
natural
Stop trying to peck at your food and eat properly!
natural
The bird pecked at some seeds on the ground.
basic
She gave her son a quick peck on the cheek before leaving.
basic