punch in

1. Keyboard data into a computer, as in He was careful about punching in all the payments . [Mid-1900s]

2. Also, punch a or the clock . Check in at a job upon arrival, as in You have to punch in or you won't get paid , or In this office no one has to punch a clock . This usage alludes to the use of a time clock, which has a button an employee punches or strikes to record the time of arrival on a card. [1920s] Also see punch out , def. 1.

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