knockout

[ nok-out ]

noun

1. an act or instance of knocking out.
2. the state or fact of being knocked out.
3. a knockout blow.
4. Informal. a person or thing overwhelmingly attractive, appealing, or successful.
5. a panel in a casing, can, or box, especially of metal or plastic, so designed that it can readily be removed, as by punching, hammering, or cutting, to provide an opening into the interior:

   a knockout in a junction box.

6. Machinery. a device for knocking something loose, as finished work from a lathe chuck.

adjective

1. that knocks out:

   the knockout punch.

knockout

/ ˈnɒkˌaʊt /

noun

1. the act of rendering unconscious
2. a blow that renders an opponent unconscious
3. 1. a competition in which competitors are eliminated progressively
   2. ( as modifier )

      a knockout contest

4. a series of absurd invented games, esp obstacle races, involving physical effort or skill
5. informal.
   a person or thing that is overwhelmingly impressive or attractive

   she's a knockout

verb

1. to render unconscious, esp by a blow
2. boxing to defeat (an opponent) by a knockout
3. to destroy, damage, or injure badly
4. to eliminate, esp in a knockout competition
5. informal.
   to overwhelm or amaze, esp with admiration or favourable reaction

   I was knocked out by that new song

6. to remove the ashes from (one's pipe) by tapping

Word History and Origins

Origin of knockout¹

1810–20; 1935–40 knockout fordef 4; noun, adj. use of verb phrase knock out

Example Sentences

The tournament will resume next year with the knockout stages, plus relegation and promotion play-offs.

From BBC

Known in his prime for his decisive and quick victories by knockout, it was clear that Tyson didn't quite have the stamina for 16 full minutes of boxing.

From Salon

Lighter gloves would have made no difference, no punches thrown even came close to a knockout.

From BBC

Like last year, the Lakers will have to survive group play to advance to the knockout round stage.

From Los Angeles Times

He had a run of 37 consecutive wins, including 33 by knockout.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• technical knockout