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
-1719-8b39efa57093cb92d024b318f7d2ba7e@1x.jpg)
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
Financial Definition of LAME DUCK
lame duck
What It Is
A lame duck is a person who has gone bankrupt or is in default. In politics, a lame duck is a politician whose tenure is about to end.
How It Works
For example, let's say John Doe has lost money on every trade he has made during the last 20 months. He is a lame duck.
LAME DUCK Defined for English Language Learners
lame duck
Definition of lame duck for English Language Learners
-
: an elected official whose time in an office or position will soon end
-
: a person, company, etc., that is weak or unsuccessful and needs help
Learn More about lame duck
-
Spanish Central: Translation of lame duck Nglish: Translation of lame duck for Spanish speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up lame duck? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!