pluck Definition
- 1to pull something quickly in order to remove it
- 2to remove feathers or hairs from a bird or animal
- 3to play the strings of a musical instrument with your fingers
Using pluck: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pluck" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She plucked a flower from the garden.
Example
He plucked the chicken before cooking it.
Example
He plucked the guitar strings expertly.
Example
She plucked up the courage to ask for a raise.
pluck Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with pluck
pluck up
to summon one's courage or confidence
Example
I had to pluck up the courage to ask her out.
Example
I don't know where he got that idea from; he just plucked it out of thin air.
Example
The movie's ending was designed to pluck at the audience's heartstrings.
Origins of pluck
from Old English 'pluccian', meaning 'to pluck, pull off, snatch away'
Summary: pluck in Brief
The verb 'pluck' [plʌk] refers to the act of pulling something quickly to remove it, removing feathers or hairs from an animal, or playing the strings of a musical instrument. It can also mean to summon one's courage or confidence, as in 'She plucked up the courage to ask for a raise.' 'Pluck' is used in phrases like 'pluck out of thin air,' meaning to invent something without evidence, and 'pluck at someone's heartstrings,' meaning to evoke strong emotions.