Eke - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Eke means to supplement or make something last longer, often with effort. It is commonly used in phrases like eke out a living, meaning to barely manage with limited resources.
Definition:
To make a small supply last longer or supplement with difficulty.
Synonyms:
supplement, stretch, augment, squeeze
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
waste, squander
Common Collocations:
eke out a living, eke out a victory, eke out supplies
Derivatives:
eked, eking
Usage Tips:
Use "eke" with "out" to mean barely managing or stretching resources (e.g., "eke out a living").
Common Phrases:
eke out an existence, eke out a win, eke by
Etymology:
From Old English "ēacan," meaning to increase or add to.
Examples:
- 1. She had to eke out her savings after losing her job.
- 2. Farmers often eke out a living in harsh conditions.
- 3. He managed to eke out a narrow victory in the race.
- 4. They eked by on minimal wages for years.