dick

¹

[ dik ]

noun

, Slang.

1. Older Use. a detective.
2. Vulgar. penis.
3. Vulgar. a stupid, mean, or contemptible person, especially a man.

Dick

²

[ dik ]

noun

1. George Frederick, 1881–1967, U.S. internist.
2. Philip K., 1928–82, U.S. science-fiction writer.
3. a male given name, form of Richard.

dick

¹

/ dɪk /

noun

1. a fellow or person
2. clever dick
   a person who is obnoxiously opinionated or self-satisfied; know-all
3. a slang word for penis

dick

²

/ dɪk /

noun

1. a slang word for detective

Dick

/ dĭk /

1. American medical researcher who collaborated with his wife, Gladys Henry Dick (1881–1963), to isolate the bacterium that causes scarlet fever. They developed a serum for the disease in 1923.

Usage

The third sense of this word was formerly considered to be taboo and it was labelled as such in previous editions of Collins English Dictionary . However, it has now become acceptable in speech, although some older or more conservative people may object to its use

Word History and Origins

Origin of dick¹

First recorded in 1545–55; generic use of the name Dick ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of dick¹

C16 (meaning: fellow): from the name Dick, familiar form of Richard, applied generally (like Jack ) to any fellow, lad, etc; hence, C19: penis

Origin of dick²

C20: by shortening and alteration from detective ; probably influenced by proper name Dick

Idioms and Phrases

see every tom, dick, and harry .

Example Sentences

Adidas and Nike and retailers like DICK'S Sporting Goods and Fanatics have made significant investments in merchandise.

From Reuters

“DICK’S management is an avatar for the rot and danger of corporate wokeness.”

From Washington Times

McCutchen spoke to Fox News after participating in the DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation "Sports Matter" program.

From Fox News

The company said its board had elected Lauren Hobart, the president of DICK’S, as CEO, also effective Feb. 1.

From Reuters

Plus, one percent of all sales will be donated to DICK’S Foundation Sports Matter program to help fund youth sports organizations in need across the country.

From Fox News

Related Words

• agent
• informer
• police officer
• private eye
• private investigator
• prosecutor
• reporter
• sleuth
• spy