Peck, n. [Perh. akin to pack; or, orig., an indefinite quantity, and fr. peck, v. (below): cf. also F. picotin a peak.] 1. The fourth part of a bushel; a dry measure of eight quarts; as, a peck of wheat. “A peck of provender.” Shak.
[1913 Webster]

2. A great deal; a large or excessive quantity. “A peck of uncertainties and doubts.” Milton.
[1913 Webster]

Peck, v. i. 1. To make strokes with the beak, or with a pointed instrument. Carew.
[1913 Webster]

2. To pick up food with the beak; hence, to eat.
[1913 Webster]

[The hen] went pecking by his side. Dryden.
[1913 Webster]

To peck at, (a) to attack with petty and repeated blows; to carp at; to nag; to tease. (a) to eat slowly and in small portions, with litle interest; as, to peck at one's food.
[1913 Webster]