Knockout
ˈnɒkaʊt
Definitions
2 meaningsAn act of rendering someone unconscious, especially by a blow.
ˈnɒkaʊt
The act of knocking someone unconscious in a fight or competition.
The heavyweight champion scored a knockout in the first round.
💡 Simply: Imagine a boxing match where one fighter gets hit so hard they fall down and can't get up for a count. That's a knockout! It's also used when something is super impressive.
👶 For kids: When someone gets hit really hard in a game and can't play anymore.
More Examples
Her performance at the audition was a knockout, landing her the leading role.
The movie was a complete knockout; everyone loved it.
How It's Used
"The boxer earned a knockout victory in the third round."
"The comedian's joke was a real knockout!"
Strikingly attractive or impressive.
ˈnɒkaʊt
Remarkably attractive or impressive.
She looked absolutely knockout in her evening gown.
💡 Simply: Think of something so amazing it takes your breath away – like a gorgeous dress or a stunning sunset. That’s knockout!
👶 For kids: When something is super pretty or cool!
More Examples
The new car has a knockout design.
The chef prepared a knockout meal for the guests.
How It's Used
"She wore a knockout dress to the gala."
"What a knockout view!"
Idioms & expressions
knock someone out
To render someone unconscious.
"The boxer knocked his opponent out with a powerful right hook."
be a knockout
To be exceptionally attractive or impressive.
"Her performance was a knockout at the talent show."
knock the stuffing out of someone
To defeat or completely exhaust someone.
"The long hike really knocked the stuffing out of me."
From 'knock' + 'out', reflecting the action of knocking someone out in a fight. First recorded in the late 19th century.
The term 'knockout' gained popularity in the late 19th century, primarily in boxing contexts, and extended later to other scenarios.
Memory tip
Think of a boxing match – the knockout is when one fighter can't get up.