Duck and drakes is also a name of stone skipping or skimming game, a pastime game of throwing flat stones across water so as to make them bounce off the surface.
This idiom means,
– To carelessly misuse one’s wealth
– To behave recklessly
– Use selfishly to suit oneself
– Waste
Example
They started playing ducks and drakes with their opponents toward the end of the game.
I thought that there were the makings of a serious relationship, but lately it’s felt like he’s just playing ducks and drakes with me.
The President had played duck and drakes with the economy of the nation.