Fluke - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A fluke is an unexpected stroke of luck or a surprising coincidence. It can also refer to the flat part of an anchor or the tail fin of certain marine animals like whales.
Definition:
An unlikely chance occurrence, often resulting in success; also a flatfish or a parasitic worm.
Synonyms:
chance, accident, stroke of luck, coincidence
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
plan, intention
Common Collocations:
lucky fluke, complete fluke, sheer fluke
Derivatives:
fluky, flukey
Usage Tips:
Use "fluke" to describe unexpected success or rare events; avoid overusing it for planned outcomes.
Common Phrases:
by a fluke, pure fluke, happy fluke
Etymology:
Originated in the 16th century; possibly from Old Norse "floke" (flatfish) or related to "fluke" (anchor blade).
Examples:
- 1. She won the lottery by a fluke.
- 2. His victory was just a lucky fluke.
- 3. The scientist discovered the cure by sheer fluke.
- 4. Don’t call it skill—it was a total fluke!