conk
20 synonyms for conk, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To hit someone, especially on the head.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use conk
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
conk out
conk someone on the head
Etymology
A 19th-century variant of "conch," the word for a large spiral seashell, used figuratively for the nose or head.
Full origin of conk →Frequently asked questions
What does “conk” mean?
The word “conk” means to hit someone, especially on the head. In plain terms, informally, to hit someone (usually on the head), or for a machine to break down — "conk out" is the common phrase for the second meaning.
How do you pronounce “conk”?
“Conk” is pronounced kongk (/kɑŋk/ in IPA).
How do you use “conk” in a sentence?
Here is “conk” used in a sentence: “He conked his brother on the head with a rolled-up newspaper.”
What part of speech is “conk”?
Depending on how it is used, “conk” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “conk” come from?
The word “conk” dates back to around 1800. A 19th-century variant of "conch," the word for a large spiral seashell, used figuratively for the nose or head.
How many meanings does “conk” have?
“Conk” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to hit someone, especially on the head.
