Word: Clay Pigeon
Definition:
A "clay pigeon" is a small, round target made of clay (a type of earth material). These targets are used in a sport called skeet or trap shooting, where people aim to shoot them down with shotguns. When the clay pigeon is thrown into the air, it breaks into pieces when hit.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "clay pigeon" when talking about shooting sports, or when discussing activities that involve aiming and shooting at targets.
Example Sentence:
"The shooter practiced at the range, aiming at the clay pigeons that were launched into the sky."
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced discussions, "clay pigeon" can also refer metaphorically to someone who is an easy target in a situation, such as in debates or competitions.
Example Sentence:
"During the debate, he felt like a clay pigeon, easily hit by the sharp arguments of his opponent."
Word Variants:
The term "clay" can also refer to the material itself, while "pigeon" can refer to the bird. However, in this context, it specifically means the target used in shooting sports.
Different Meaning:
- Clay: Refers to the natural material used to make pottery and bricks. - Pigeon: Can refer to the bird that is often seen in cities.
Synonyms:
- Target (in the context of shooting) - Dummy (in some contexts, though this can have different meanings)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "clay pigeon," but you might hear the term used in phrases like "easy target," which means someone who can easily be defeated or criticized.