pick on

NOUN

[/pɪk ɑːn/]

to repeatedly treat someone unfairly or bully them, especially someone weaker

💡 Concept

The older boys always pick on the smallest kid during recess.

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/pɪk ɑːn/

🇬🇧 UK/pɪk ɒn/

🌳Etymology

Rootpick

Suffix-on

Origin

The verb 'pick' derives from Middle English and Old French origins, originally meaning 'to select or choose.' The phrasal verb 'pick on' developed metaphorically from this sense, applying the idea of selection to the act of targeting or singling out a person, particularly someone vulnerable, for harassment or criticism.

Breakdown

pick (to select, choose) + on (continuous action or direction toward a target). The combination shifts the neutral sense of selection into an adversarial context, suggesting repeated or deliberate targeting of an individual.

🎵Rhyme

stick onclick onbrick on

stick on

click on

brick on

🔗Collocations

pick on someone weaker

always pick on

stop picking on

pick on the new kid

don't pick on me

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“My coworker keeps picking on me because I accidentally sent a cat meme to the CEO.”

“The teacher told the bullies to stop picking on the new student.”

😄 Fun example

“Why do you always pick on me when I'm just trying to eat my sandwich in peace?”

“He tends to pick on people who won't fight back.”

📚Related Words

Synonyms

bullyharassteasetormenttarget

Antonyms

protectdefendsupport

bullyvictimharassmentintimidatepersecution

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pick on — to repeatedly treat someone unfairly or bully them, especially someone weaker

Example Sentences