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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.

eke

/ik/ /iːk/

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.

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