SITTING DUCK Meaning and
Definition
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Sitting duck is a phrase used to describe someone or something that is vulnerable, defenseless, or easy prey for an attack, criticism, or danger. It is a metaphorical term derived from the act of hunting ducks, in which the birds are usually stationary or frequently return to a particular location, making them easy targets for hunters.
Within the figurative context, a sitting duck refers to an individual or a group that is exposed and helpless, lacking protection or means of escape from adversity or harm. This vulnerability can be attributed to various factors such as unawareness, lack of preparedness, or being in a disadvantageous position.
The term is commonly used in discussions about potential victims of harmful actions or situations, suggesting that they are easy targets and their predicament is evident to others. It may be employed in various contexts, including military operations, sports, politics, or everyday life situations.
For example, in a military context, a soldier who is positioned out in the open without any cover is considered a sitting duck as they can easily be targeted by enemy fire. Similarly, in a political debate, a politician who makes a controversial statement without any supporting evidence can be called a sitting duck for opponents looking to criticize or attack their position.
Overall, the term sitting duck captures the notion of vulnerability, defenselessness, and exposure to potential harm or criticism.
Common Misspellings for SITTING DUCK
- aitting duck
- zitting duck
- xitting duck
- ditting duck
- eitting duck
- witting duck
- sutting duck
- sjtting duck
- sktting duck
- sotting duck
- s9tting duck
- s8tting duck
- sirting duck
- sifting duck
- sigting duck
- siyting duck
- si6ting duck
- si5ting duck
- sitring duck
- sittingduck
Etymology of SITTING DUCK
The term "sitting duck" originated in the early 20th century, specifically during World War II. It was initially used in military contexts to refer to a vulnerable target, such as an aircraft or a ship, that was stationary or moving slowly. The phrase "sitting duck" describes someone or something that is extremely easy to target or attack.
The etymology of this phrase is believed to be rooted in hunting terminology. Ducks, when resting or feeding, tend to sit still in the water or on land, making them easy targets for hunters. The expression likely draws on this idea, suggesting that someone or something defenseless and stationary is as vulnerable as a sitting duck.
Over time, the phrase "sitting duck" has extended beyond military contexts and can be applied to any situation where someone or something is in a vulnerable, exposed position.
Idioms with the word SITTING DUCK
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a sitting duck
"A sitting duck" is an idiom used to describe someone or something that is very vulnerable and has no protection or defense against danger or attack. This expression indicates a person or an object that is easy to target or harm due to their exposed or helpless position.
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sitting duck
A person or thing that is vulnerable or exposed to danger or attack, usually because they are an easy target.
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a sitting duck/target
The idiom "a sitting duck/target" refers to something or someone that is easy to attack or criticize because they are sitting or standing still, making them an easy target for harm or criticism. It can also refer to a person or thing that is vulnerable or unprotected. It is often used to describe someone who is in a position of disadvantage or weakness.
Similar spelling words for SITTING DUCK
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