Streak

Noun

Definition: A long, narrow mark or line that is a different color or texture from its surroundings.

Definition: A period of success or good behavior, especially when this occurs unexpectedly.

Definition: stripe, mark, line

Definition: run, series, sequence

Definition: blend, uniformity

Definition: slump, drought, failure

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Examples:

There was a streak of red paint on the white wall.
She went on a winning streak in tennis, winning every match.

Mnemonics:

Imagine a streak of paint running down a wall.
Think of a successful streak in sports, where a team or individual keeps winning.

Verb

Definition: To move quickly and uncontrollably in a particular direction.

Synonyms: Dash, Race, Bolt

Antonyms: Crawl, Saunter, Stroll

Examples:

The horse streaked across the field.

Mnemonics:

Picture a horse streaking across a field at high speed.

Etymology:

Origin:

Old English 'strica', from the Germanic root 'strekan', which means 'to stretch' or 'to run'.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the Old English period and has retained its meaning of a line or mark throughout history. The metaphorical use of streak to describe a period of success or good behavior emerged in the late 19th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Streak of bad luck"

Explanation:

Refers to a series of unfortunate events or incidents that occur one after another.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing the noun form with the verb form.

Explanation:

While the noun form refers to a line or mark, the verb form refers to rapid movement. Be careful to use the correct form based on the intended meaning.