duck down
A2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To quickly bend down so something doesn't hit you or so nobody can see you.
Literal meaning: To move downward like a duck lowering its head — the action is transparent.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To quickly lower the head or whole body to avoid something flying through the air, such as a ball or projectile.
"She ducked down just in time as the ball flew past her head."
Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral
To lower your body quickly to avoid being seen by someone.
"He spotted his boss coming and ducked down behind the cubicle wall."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Used to describe a fast, instinctive physical reaction. Very common in action, military, or everyday contexts. The verb 'duck' alone is also widely used; 'down' emphasizes the direction and completeness of the movement.
Commonly used with
quickly suddenly low bullet shot cover
Forms
Base
duck down
I/you/we/they
3rd person
ducks down
he/she/it
Past simple
ducked down
yesterday
Past participle
ducked down
have + pp
-ing form
ducking down
continuous
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