pile driver

noun

1. a machine for driving piles, usually composed of a tall framework in which either a weight is raised and dropped on a pile head or in which a steam hammer drives the pile.
2. a person who operates such a machine.
3. a person who hits or attacks forcefully or powerfully.
4. Wrestling. a move whereby an opponent is turned upside down and slammed headfirst to the mat.
5. British Sports. a powerful stroke, hit, kick, etc.

pile-driver

noun

1. a machine that drives piles into the ground either by repeatedly allowing a heavy weight to fall on the head of the pile or by using a steam hammer
2. informal.
   a forceful punch or kick

Word History and Origins

Origin of pile driver¹

First recorded in 1765–75

Example Sentences

Scott Bain had to tip wide a dangerous Blair Spittal pile-driver towards the near post, and Tony Andreu headed over from the corner.

From BBC

Rooke threw off the Russian with an elbow, giving the defender a black eye, and hit a pile-driver from 25 yards that flew past Khomich.

From BBC

The Argentinian did well to push away a Trent Alexander-Arnold pile-driver before Mané fluffed a header when gloriously placed.

From The Guardian

Leonard continued his pile-driver approach, earning 11 free throw attempts by picking his spots to attack off the dribble.

From Washington Post

“A lot of backs can catch the ball or have speed and elusiveness, but they’re not also the pile-driver and red-zone primary threat that Gurley is. I don’t think there’s a back next to him. Anything you need him to do, Todd Gurley can do.”

From Washington Post