Pronunciation: [ˈiːk ˈa͡ʊt] (IPA) 
"Eke out" is a common phrase that means to make something last longer or to supplement one's income. The spelling of "eke out" follows the standard English rules for pronunciation, with "eke" being pronounced as /iːk/ and "out" pronounced as /aʊt/. The "e" in "eke" is pronounced as a long "e" sound and is followed by a hard "k" consonant. The "ou" in "out" is pronounced as a diphthong that blends the sounds of "ah" and "oo".
Eke out is a phrasal verb with several meanings, primarily referring to the act of making something, usually scarce or inadequate, last longer or have a sufficient amount. It can also describe the act of obtaining something, often with difficulty or little by little, to improve or sustain one's situation.
When used in the context of resources or finances, eke out means to utilize or manage something sparingly, so as to make it last as long as possible. For example, a family living on a tight budget may eke out their income by cutting back on expenses and stretching each dollar. This can also apply to food supplies during times of scarcity, where individuals try to eke out their limited rations.
Eke out can also describe the act of obtaining or achieving something with great effort, persistence, or small increments. For instance, a struggling artist might eke out a living by selling a few paintings here and there. Alternatively, a student may eke out a passing grade by studying intensively in the days leading up to their exam.
Overall, eke out encompasses the concepts of making do with limited resources, managing scarce supplies, and achieving or improving something gradually or with difficulty. It implies a strategic approach to stretching or obtaining whatever is necessary to sustain or enhance one's circumstances.
The phrase "eke out" has its origins in Old English. The word "eke" comes from the Old English verb "ēacian", which means "to increase" or "to add". It is related to the Anglo-Saxon word "ēaca", meaning "an addition" or "an increase". Over time, "eke" developed into a verb meaning "to add or supplement something to make it last longer or go further". Hence, "eke out" means "to make something last longer or increase its supply by adding to it".
