# tuck

/ˈtək/ (US) · /tˈʌk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tuck
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. to push into a small space

verb · CEFR B1

to push the edges of something into a small space to make it look neat or keep it safe.

For teachers: to push or fold the edges or ends of something into a confined space to secure it or create a tidy appearance.

- He tucked his shirt into his trousers before the job interview started.
- She carefully tucked the loose ends of the blanket under the mattress to ensure the bed looked perfectly made for the guests.

### 2. to put in a safe place

verb · CEFR B2

to put something in a place where it is hidden or protected.

For teachers: to place something in a snug, safe, or somewhat concealed location.

- The small cottage was tucked away behind a row of tall trees.
- He tucked the private letter into the back of his diary, hoping no one would think to look there.

### 3. to curl the body

verb · CEFR B2

to pull your knees up close to your chest.

For teachers: to draw one's body or limbs into a small, compact ball.

- The diver tucked her knees in to spin faster through the air.
- The gymnast managed to tuck his legs tightly during the triple somersault, maintaining perfect form until the landing.

### 4. a fold in fabric

noun · CEFR B2

a small fold sewn into cloth to make it fit better or look decorative.

For teachers: a flattened fold in fabric that is stitched into place, typically to reduce the dimension of a garment or for decoration.

- The tailor added a few tucks to the waist of the dress.
- The vintage blouse featured intricate vertical tucks across the chest, demonstrating the high level of craftsmanship common in that era.

### 5. plastic surgery

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

a medical operation to remove extra skin or fat to make a part of the body look thinner.

For teachers: a surgical procedure intended to remove excess skin or fat and tighten the remaining tissue.

- She decided to get a tummy tuck after losing a lot of weight.
- The patient inquired about the recovery time for a surgical tuck, specifically regarding the abdominal area after significant weight loss.

### 6. food or snacks

noun · CEFR C2 · British English · Informal · Archaic

food, especially sweets and snacks eaten by children at school.

For teachers: food, particularly snacks or confectionery; often associated with school shops.

- The boys spent all their pocket money on tuck at the school shop.
- In the classic novel, the students frequently raided their tuck boxes for biscuits and jam during late-night study sessions.

Usage: Often used in the compound 'tuck shop'.

Teaching tip: This sense is largely restricted to British boarding school contexts and is becoming less common in modern speech.

## Examples

- She tucked the letter into her pocket.
- He tucked the blanket around his shoulders to stay warm during the cold night.
- The child tucked herself under the heavy duvet, pulling the fabric tight around her chin to block out the draft from the window.

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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.