lame duck
Definition of lame duck
1 : one that is weak or that falls behind in ability or achievement; especially, chiefly British : an ailing company
2 : an elected official or group continuing to hold political office during the period between the election and the inauguration of a successor
3 : one whose position or term of office will soon end
From the M-W Editors
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Examples of lame duck in a Sentence
The President was a lame duck during the end of his second term.
First Known Use of lame duck
1761
LAME DUCK Defined for English Language Learners
lame duck
Definition of lame duck for English Language Learners
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: an elected official whose time in an office or position will soon end
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: a person, company, etc., that is weak or unsuccessful and needs help
Learn More about lame duck
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Spanish Central: Translation of lame duck Nglish: Translation of lame duck for Spanish speakers
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