beak

noun

1
a
: the bill of a bird
especially : a strong short broad bill
b(1)
: the elongated sucking mouth of some insects (such as the true bugs)
(2)
: any of various rigid projecting mouth structures (as of a turtle)
c
: the human nose
2
: a pointed structure or formation:
a
: a metal-pointed beam projecting from the bow especially of an ancient galley for piercing an enemy ship
b
: the spout of a vessel
c
: a continuous slight architectural projection ending in an arris see molding illustration
d
: a process suggesting the beak of a bird
3
chiefly British
beaked adjective
beaky adjective

Examples of beak in a Sentence

the beak of a hawk an actor with a big beak
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Instead, everything scientists know about the species has come from dead specimens captured in fishing nets or from beaks found in the stomachs of other animals. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 June 2025 False killer whales — which are found throughout all the world’s oceans — are distinguished by their dark complexion, slender frame and lack of a beak, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 9 May 2025 He is joined by an Indian Runner Duck with autism, Fred, who creates beats with his beak, and the brown bear with Down Syndrome, Bearnice, who loves nothing more than dancing for the big crowd at the circus. Leo Barraclough, Variety, 29 Apr. 2025 It should be mentioned that scientists at Case Western Reserve University previously developed a somewhat similar material, inspired by squid beaks, which can be made harder or softer by varying the amount of light it's exposed to. Ben Coxworth july 02, New Atlas, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for beak

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bec, from Anglo-French, from Latin beccus, of Gaulish origin

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of beak was in the 13th century

Cite this Entry

“Beak.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beak. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

beak

noun
1
a
: the bill of a bird
especially : the bill of a bird of prey adapted for striking and tearing
b
: any of various rigid mouth structures (as of a turtle) that stick out
also : the long sucking mouth of some insects
c
: the human nose
2
: a part shaped like a beak
beaked adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on beak

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!