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fluke

noun

/fluk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of fluke

A stroke of luck or an unexpected, fortunate occurrence.
"The tennis player's shot was a lucky fluke that landed right on the line."

Detailed meaning of fluke

It implies a chance event or outcome that brings success or favorable results, often regarded as being beyond one's control or expectation. In this sense, a fluke can be seen as an accidental or serendipitous occurrence that leads to a positive outcome. The term 'fluke' is also used in various fields, such as sports or games, to describe an exceptional or rare performance or result that deviates from the norm. Another common definition of 'fluke' refers to the flat, triangular part of a whale or other marine mammal's tail. It is the portion of the tail that propels the animal through the water. The fluke is typically flexible and powerful, allowing the animal to generate propulsion and maneuver in its aquatic environment.

Example sentences containing fluke

1. The whale raised its massive fluke before diving back into the depths of the ocean.
2. Winning the lottery was a complete fluke; I never expected it.
3. It was a fluke that I found my keys in the first place I looked.
4. The team's victory was not a fluke; they had trained hard and deserved to win.
5. The fisherman couldn't believe his fluke catch; it was the largest he had ever seen.
6. The discovery of a rare artifact in the backyard was a fortunate fluke.

History and etymology of fluke

The noun 'fluke' has a somewhat uncertain etymology. It is believed to have originated from Old English, where it was known as 'flocc,' meaning 'a strand' or 'a lock of hair.' Over time, the word 'fluke' evolved to refer to the barb or triangular shape of an anchor, and later to describe the accidental or unexpected catching of fish using such an anchor. From there, it took on the broader sense of a stroke of luck or an unexpected, fortunate occurrence. The exact transition in meaning from a strand of hair to a fortunate event is not entirely clear, but it likely reflects the idea that some things, like a strand of hair, are small and easily overlooked, yet they can sometimes lead to unexpectedly positive outcomes. The etymology of 'fluke' highlights its historical association with luck and chance, making it a term used to describe fortunate and serendipitous events.

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Further usage examples of fluke

1. The perfect timing of the train's arrival was just a fluke; we hadn't planned it.
2. It was a fluke that I met my favorite celebrity at the airport.
3. The golfer's incredible hole-in-one was a fluke that left everyone amazed.
4. The photographer captured a stunning image of a fluke whale tail emerging from the water.
5. The storm's sudden change in direction was a fluke that caught everyone off guard.
6. The scientist stumbled upon a fluke observation that led to a breakthrough discovery.
7. Her success in the competition was not a fluke; she had practiced tirelessly.
8. The rare bird sighting was a fluke; it was not commonly found in the area.
9. The student's high score on the test was a fluke; they hadn't studied much.
10. The unexpected fluke goal in the last minute of the game secured their victory.
11. The comedian's hilarious improvisation was a fluke that had the audience in stitches.
12. The astronomer's accidental observation turned out to be a fluke comet sighting.
13. The stolen wallet's return was a fluke; it was found by a kind stranger.
14. Winning the lottery was such a fluke; I can't believe my luck!
15. His promotion was a total fluke, considering his inexperience.
16. Finding that rare coin in the attic was a delightful fluke.
17. The last-minute goal was a fluke, but it secured our victory.
18. Getting a table at the popular restaurant was a lucky fluke.
19. Her chance encounter with the CEO was a career-changing fluke.
20. The weather cleared up for the wedding, a fortunate fluke.
21. Scoring the winning goal in overtime was an unexpected fluke.
22. His sudden recovery from illness was a miraculous fluke.
23. The unexpected job offer felt like a serendipitous fluke.
24. Meeting your childhood friend in a foreign city was a charming fluke.