Word
peacock
Phoneticspea·cock, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpiˌkɑk/
UK/pˈiːkɒk/
Definitions
01the bird
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun
n. a large male bird with very long, brightly coloured tail feathers that it can spread out like a fan.
n. a male peafowl of the genus Pavo, distinguished by its iridescent plumage and elongated upper tail coverts.
“The peacock spread its magnificent tail to impress the other birds in the park.”
“In the palace gardens, a peacock strutted across the lawn, its vibrant blue and green feathers shimmering in the midday sun.”
Synonyms
02a vain person
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Informal
n. a person who is very proud and likes to show off their clothes or appearance.
n. a person who exhibits extreme vanity or ostentation, particularly regarding their physical appearance or social status.
“He is such a peacock, spending hours choosing the perfect suit for every party.”
“The young executive was something of a peacock, frequently parading through the office in bespoke tailoring to ensure he was noticed by the board.”
03to show off
C2 · Proficiency Literary · Informal
v. to walk or behave in a way that shows you are very proud and want people to look at you.
v. to behave ostentatiously or strut in a manner intended to attract attention or admiration.
“The lead singer began to peacock around the stage as soon as the lights went up.”
“He spent the entire evening peacocking near the VIP section, hoping to catch the eye of the talent scouts.”
Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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