# ducking

/ˈdəkɪŋ/ (US) · /dˈʌkɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ducking
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

to move your head or body down quickly to avoid being hit or seen. You also use this when you want to get out of the way of something flying toward you.

For teachers: to lower the head or body suddenly, typically to avoid an object, a blow, or observation. Often used in physical descriptions of movement or evasion.

## Examples

- He is ducking to avoid hitting his head on the low door.
- The children were ducking behind the sofa while playing hide and seek in the living room.
- By ducking into a narrow alleyway just as the patrol passed, the messenger managed to remain undetected despite the bright moonlight illuminating the main street.

## Usage notes

- The verb can be used intransitively or with a preposition like 'under' or 'behind'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.