First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
beak
noun \ˈbēk\
: the hard usually pointed parts that cover a bird's mouth
: a person's nose
Full Definition of BEAK
1
a : the bill of a bird; especially : a strong short broad bill b (1) : the elongated sucking mouth of some insects (as the true bugs) (2) : any of various rigid projecting mouth structures (as of a turtle) c : the human nose
2
: a pointed structure or formation: a : a metal-pointed beam projecting from the bow especially of an ancient galley for piercing an enemy ship b : the spout of a vessel c : a continuous slight architectural projection ending in an arris — see molding illustration d : a process suggesting the beak of a bird
3
— beaked \ˈbēkt\ adjective
— beaky \ˈbē-kē\ adjective
See beak defined for English-language learners
See beak defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of BEAK
Middle English bec, from Anglo-French, from Latin beccus, of Gaulish origin
BEAK Defined for Kids
beak
noun \ˈbēk\
Definition of BEAK for Kids
1
: the bill of a bird <an eagle's beak>
2
: a part shaped like or resembling a bird's bill <a turtle's beak>
— beaked \ˈbēkt\ adjective <a long-beaked bird>
Learn More About BEAK
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: beaked cocklePrevious Word in the Dictionary: beaglerAll Words Near: beak
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up beak? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).