Fluke

/fluk/ noun

Definition

An unlikely chance occurrence, or a parasitic flatworm, or the flat end of an anchor arm.

Etymology

Multiple etymologies: the 'chance' meaning comes from billiards slang (19th century) for an accidentally successful shot. The parasitic worm sense comes from Old English floc meaning 'flatfish'. The anchor part comes from its resemblance to a flounder's flat shape.

Kelly Says

This word perfectly demonstrates how English allows completely unrelated meanings to share the same form - pure coincidence brought together lucky accidents, parasitic worms, and anchor parts under one spelling. It's a linguistic 'fluke' that shows the playful chaos of English etymology.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.