punch-drunk

[ puhnch-druhngk ]

adjective

1. (especially of a boxer) having cerebral concussion caused by repeated blows to the head and consequently exhibiting unsteadiness of gait, hand tremors, slow muscular movement, hesitant speech, and dulled mentality.
2. Informal. befuddled; dazed.

punch-drunk

adjective

1. demonstrating or characteristic of the behaviour of a person who has suffered repeated blows to the head, esp a professional boxer
2. dazed; stupefied

Word History and Origins

Origin of punch-drunk¹

An Americanism dating back to 1915–20

Example Sentences

Then it may well be the case that the Irish public is punch drunk with revelations of shocking abuses of children from the past.

From The Daily Beast

It felt like I was watching a lame reappropriation of the paradise scenes in Punch-Drunk Love.

From The Daily Beast

More recently, I loved Bright Star, Punch Drunk Love, and Nobody Knows.

From The Daily Beast

I fear there was overmuch wine-drinking, and I am sure there was a fearful amount of punch drunk.

From Project Gutenberg

He sounded like he might be drunk, or merely punch-drunk with excitement.

From Project Gutenberg

Gladys was looking at him in appreciative if slightly punch-drunk delight.

From Project Gutenberg

It wasnt a dream, Nick muttered, shaking his head like a punch-drunk fighter.

From Project Gutenberg

This punch-drunk pounding on the Cretan-Dorian fracas as if it were the only battle going and the only way to work things.

From Project Gutenberg