kick-ass

or kick·ass

[ kik-as ]

adjective

, Slang.

1. strikingly or overwhelmingly tough, aggressive, powerful, or effective:

   He finally built himself a kick-ass computer.

kick ass

verb

1. to be impressive, esp in a forceful way

   pop music that kicks ass

adjective

1. forceful, aggressive, and impressive

Word History and Origins

Origin of kick-ass¹

kick + -ass

Idioms and Phrases

Also, kick butt . Punish or discipline harshly; also, defeat soundly. For example, That foreman's furious; he's going to kick ass before the day is over , or Our team is out to kick butt today . [ Vulgar slang ; 1940s]