Langimage
English

dud

|dud|

B2

/dʌd/

useless item

Etymology
Etymology Information

'dud' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'dudde,' which referred to a cloak or mantle.

Historical Evolution

'dudde' transformed into the modern English word 'dud,' retaining its connotation of something worn out or useless.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a cloak or mantle,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'something useless or a failure.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a thing that fails to work properly or is otherwise unsatisfactory or worthless.

The new phone turned out to be a dud.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

an explosive device that fails to detonate.

The bomb was a dud and didn't explode.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39