as in picks at
to subject (someone) to constant scoldings and sharp reminders
kept pecking at their prodigal daughter to get off the couch and to start looking for a job
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pecks (at)
Verb
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There are also disease detection dogs that sniff out cancers, diabetes and other medical conditions through human breath, sweat and urine samples.—
Katie Nixon,
The Tennessean,
25 Aug. 2025 -
Carrie and her friends’ authority over Manhattan cool originally evoked a big-sister confidence that would be difficult to replicate now, at a time when suspicion dogs anyone claiming knowledge or expertise.—
Inkoo Kang,
New Yorker,
15 Aug. 2025
Verb
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Ultimately, Adair urges parents to discourage kids from chasing food trends.—
Melissa Willets,
Parents,
9 Sep. 2025
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The report also urges Canadian media to go beyond Black History Month to showcase homegrown Black talent and stories year-round, and to set goals on hiring and promoting black talent in organizations.—
Etan Vlessing,
HollywoodReporter,
9 Sep. 2025
Verb
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Day begs Dusk to see what Demerzel’s sacrifice meant.—
JP Mangalindan,
Time,
12 Sep. 2025
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Alternating between Laura and Cherry’s stark perspectives adds to the fun of the series that begs to be binged.—
Erin Jensen,
USA Today,
10 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Pecks (at).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pecks%20%28at%29. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.
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