PECK

n. v.

9 definitions — Webster’s Dictionary (1828)

1.
n.

The fourth part of a bushel; a dry measure of eight quarts; as, a peck of wheat. "A peck of provender." Shak.

2.
n.

A great deal; a large or excessive quantity. "A peck of uncertainties and doubts." Milton.

3.
v.

To strike with the beak; to thrust the beak into; as, a bird pecks a tree.

4.
v.

Hence: To strike, pick, thrust against, or dig into, with a pointed instrument; especially, to strike, pick, etc., with repeated quick movements.

5.
v.

To seize and pick up with the beak, or as with the beak; to bite; to eat; -- often with up. Addison. This fellow pecks up wit as pigeons peas. Shak.

6.
v.

To make, by striking with the beak or a pointed instrument; as, to peck a hole in a tree.

7.
v.

To make strokes with the beak, or with a pointed instrument. Carew.

8.
v.

To pick up food with the beak; hence, to eat. [The hen] went pecking by his side. Dryden. To peck at, to attack with petty and repeated blows; to carp at; to nag; to tease.

9.
n.

A quick, sharp stroke, as with the beak of a bird or a pointed instrument.

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