fluke

UK: fluːk | US: fluːk

Definition
  1. n. an unlikely chance occurrence, especially a surprising piece of luck

  2. n. a flatfish of the family Pleuronectidae

  3. n. the triangular blade at the end of an anchor arm

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "fluke" has an uncertain origin but is believed to derive from Old English or Low German roots. Its primary modern meaning ("a stroke of luck") emerged in the 19th century, possibly influenced by the unpredictability of catching a flatfish (another meaning of "fluke"). The anchor blade sense may come from its resemblance to a fish's shape. The word's evolution reflects a blend of maritime and chance associations.

Examples
  1. Winning the lottery was a complete fluke.

  2. He caught a fluke while fishing off the coast.

  3. The anchor's fluke dug firmly into the seabed.

  4. Her success wasn’t just a fluke—she worked hard for it.

  5. Scientists confirmed the discovery was no fluke.