adj
Uncommon
knockout
NOK-owt
Knockout (adj) means Strong or effective enough to render someone unconscious. Example: “He won the fight with a knockout punch in the second round.”
adj
1
Strong or effective enough to render someone unconscious.
"He won the fight with a knockout punch in the second round."
2
Strikingly attractive or impressive.
"She wore a knockout red dress to the premiere."
How to use knockout
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribing something powerful enough to floor an opponent, or, informally, someone stunningly attractive.
Common pairings
a knockout punch
a knockout dress
a knockout performance
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He won the fight with a _____ punch in the second round.
Etymology
A noun/adjective formed from the phrasal verb "knock out."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for knockout
See all rhymes for knockout →Frequently asked questions
What does “knockout” mean?
The word “knockout” means strong or effective enough to render someone unconscious. In plain terms, describing something powerful enough to floor an opponent, or, informally, someone stunningly attractive.
How do you pronounce “knockout”?
“Knockout” is pronounced NOK-owt (/ˈnɑk.oʊt/ in IPA).
How do you use “knockout” in a sentence?
Here is “knockout” used in a sentence: “He won the fight with a knockout punch in the second round.”
What part of speech is “knockout”?
“Knockout” is an adjective.
Is “knockout” a common word?
“Knockout” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “knockout” have?
“Knockout” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: strong or effective enough to render someone unconscious.
What is the difference between a "knockout punch" and calling someone "a knockout"?
A "knockout punch" describes a blow strong enough to render an opponent unconscious, while calling a person "a knockout" is an informal compliment meaning they are strikingly attractive.
Is describing someone as "a knockout" formal or casual?
Calling someone "a knockout" is casual, complimentary slang, and would not be used in formal or professional writing.
What phrases commonly use "knockout" as a descriptor?
"Knockout" often appears in phrases like "knockout punch," "knockout blow," and "knockout round," all drawing on the idea of something powerful enough to instantly defeat or overwhelm.
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