Sitting duck
Meaning
Someone or something easily vulnerable to attack, exploitation, or harm because of their defenseless or stationary position.
Origin
The phrase "sitting duck" draws its vivid imagery directly from the world of hunting. A duck in flight is a swift, challenging target, but one resting placidly on the water presents an easy, stationary mark—a prime, defenseless target for any hunter. This clear contrast between an elusive bird and a vulnerable one at rest gave rise to the powerful metaphor. The expression emerged in the 19th century, with its first recorded appearance in print around 1836 within an article discussing grouse shooting. It swiftly moved beyond the hunting grounds to describe any person or object made vulnerable by their lack of defense or movement.
Examples
- Without any cover, the soldiers were like sitting ducks in the open field.
- Leaving your laptop unlocked in a public place makes it a sitting duck for theft.