dick

Everyday

1. (a name) Dick is an old short form of the name Richard, as in Dick Whittington. tree →
2. (rude, slang) A rude word for a man's private part, the penis. tree →
3. (rude, slang) A rude insult for a mean or annoying person. tree →
4. (old US slang) A detective («private dick»). tree →

In the lessons

In stories and pantomimes, Dick Whittington is a famous character who becomes Lord Mayor of London with his cat. In older books, Dick is a normal name. In today's talk, the slang meanings are rude and should not be used at school. «Moby-Dick» is a famous novel about a whale.

Examples

• Dick Whittington went to London with his cat. tree →
• We watched the pantomime of Dick Whittington. tree →
• «Moby-Dick» is a story about a white whale. tree →
• In the old book, Dick and Jane go shopping. tree →
• The detective was called a private dick in old films. tree →
• Calling someone a dick is rude and not allowed in class. tree →
• Dick heard him, and came into the room. tree →

Note

Because of the rude meanings, many children laugh at old names like Dick; it was a normal name. Do not use the slang senses at school; it is swearing.