Dead Duck, A
Definition
A has-been or a loser. The term dates from the second half of the nineteenth century and may have been derived from “lame duck.” Initially, it referred to a person whose political influence had declined. Later, it simply came to mean someone who has no hope of winning or has already lost.
Related Terms & Expressions
- Lame Duck: A person or thing that is no longer effective, successful, or in contention.
- Lost Cause: An endeavor that has no chance of success.
- Down and Out: Lacking money or prospects; destitute.
- Washed-Up: No longer effective or successful; past one’s prime.
Synonyms
- Has-been
- Failures
- Flop
- Non-starter
Antonyms
- Winner
- Success
- Achiever
- Victor
Humor-Filled Quote
“If at first you don’t succeed, you’re probably a dead duck.”
Proverb
“You have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince.” — Sometimes, failures lead to ultimate success.
Popular References
- Literature: “The Winter of Our Discontent” by John Steinbeck, detailing a losing man’s moral and emotional struggle.
- Movies: “Rocky” (1976) – Rocky Balboa was a dead duck until he wasn’t.
- Songs: “Loser” by Beck – An anthem for all the defeated ducks out there.
- Books: “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway – The ultimate story of a tenacious so-called dead duck.
- Poetry: “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost – Sometimes being a dead duck leads you to unexplored, yet fulfilling paths.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
Remember, even a ‘dead duck’ can rise again, waddling serenely on the river of resilience. It’s not about the quacks we make but the lakes we float on. Keep paddling; you might just hit a great breakthrough!
### Which term is synonymous with 'Dead Duck'?
- [x] Has-been
- [ ] Top Dog
- [ ] Rising Star
- [ ] Go-getter
> **Explanation:** 'Has-been' is synonymous with 'Dead Duck,' indicating someone who has lost relevance or effectiveness.
### What is an antonym for 'Dead Duck'?
- [ ] Lame Duck
- [x] Winner
- [ ] Lost Cause
- [ ] Flop
> **Explanation:** 'Winner' is an antonym for 'Dead Duck,' signifying success and victory.
### True or False: 'Lost Cause' can be considered a related term to 'Dead Duck.'
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** 'Lost Cause' is a related term, as both express a lack of hope for success.
### Which song could be an anthem for a 'Dead Duck'?
- [x] “Loser” by Beck
- [ ] “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
- [ ] "We Are the Champions" by Queen
- [ ] “Don't Stop Believin’” by Journey
> **Explanation:** “Loser” by Beck resonates aptly with the sentiment of being a 'Dead Duck.'
### The phrase 'Dead Duck' initially referred to who?
- [ ] Business magnates
- [ ] Athletically challenged
- [x] Politically ineffectual
- [ ] Clumsy dancers
> **Explanation:** 'Dead Duck' originally described those whose political influence had waned.
### Which movie depicts a character who starts as a metaphorical 'Dead Duck'?
- [x] "Rocky" (1976)
- [ ] "Jurassic Park" (1993)
- [ ] "Titanic" (1997)
- [ ] "Finding Nemo" (2003)
> **Explanation:** "Rocky" features the character Rocky Balboa, who undergoes transformation from a 'dead duck' to a winner.
