First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1punch
noun \ˈpənch\
Definition of PUNCH
1
a : a tool usually in the form of a short rod of steel that is variously shaped at one end for different operations (as forming, perforating, embossing, or cutting) b : a short tapering steel rod for driving the heads of nails below a surface c : a steel die faced with a letter in relief that is forced into a softer metal to form an intaglio matrix from which foundry type is cast d : a device or machine for cutting holes or notches (as in paper or cardboard)
2
: a hole or notch from a perforating operation
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Origin of PUNCH
Middle English pounce, punche, probably alteration of ponson, ponchon puncheon
2punch
verb
: to hit (someone or something) hard with your fist
: to press or push (something) with a short, quick movement
: to make (a hole, dent, etc.) by pressing or cutting in, into, or through something
Full Definition of PUNCH
transitive verb
2
a : to strike with a forward thrust especially of the fist b : to drive or push forcibly by or as if by a punch c : to hit (a ball) with less than a full swing
3
: to emboss, cut, perforate, or make with or as if with a punch
4
a : to push down so as to produce a desired result <punch buttons on a jukebox> b : to hit or press down the operating mechanism of <punch a typewriter> c : to insert a time card into (a time clock) d : to produce by or as if by punching keys <punch out a tune on the piano> e : to enter (as data) by punching keys
5
: to give emphasis to
intransitive verb
1
: to perform the action of punching something
2
: to move or push forward especially by a sudden forceful effort <punched into enemy territory>
— punch·er noun
See punch defined for English-language learners
See punch defined for kids
Origin of PUNCH
Middle English pouncen, punchen to emboss, pierce, probably from pounce, noun
First Known Use: 14th century
3punch
noun
Definition of PUNCH
1
: the action of punching
2
: a quick blow with or as if with the fist
3
: effective energy or forcefulness <a story that packs a punch> <political punch>
— punch·less \ˈpənch-ləs\ adjective
— to the punch
: to the first blow or to decisive action —usually used with beat
First Known Use of PUNCH
14th century
4punch
noun
Definition of PUNCH
: a hot or cold drink that is usually a combination of hard liquor, wine, or beer and nonalcoholic beverages; also : a drink that is a mixture of nonalcoholic beverages
Origin of PUNCH
perhaps from Hindi & Urdu pā̃c five, from Sanskrit pañca; akin to Greek pente five; from its originally having five ingredients — more at five
First Known Use: 1632
PUNCHED Defined for Kids
1punch
verb \ˈpənch\
punchedpunch·ing
Definition of PUNCH for Kids
1
: to strike with the fist
2
: to sharply press or poke <She punched the keys on her computer.>
3
: to make (a hole) by pressing into or through something
4
: to make a hole in with a punch
2punch
noun
Definition of PUNCH for Kids
: a drink usually containing different fruit juices
3punch
noun
Definition of PUNCH for Kids
: a blow with or as if with the fist
4punch
noun
Definition of PUNCH for Kids
: a tool for piercing, stamping, or cutting
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