noun
Uncommon
punching
PUHNT-shihng
Punching (noun) means the act of hitting with the fist or making holes with a punch. Example: “The punching of tickets slowed the queue down.”
noun
1
The act of hitting with the fist or making holes with a punch.
"The punching of tickets slowed the queue down."
"The boxer's daily punching of the heavy bag built his strength."
"The punching of holes in the paper must be done carefully."
How to use punching
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe act of striking with a fist, or of making holes.
Common mistake
"Punching above your weight" is an idiom meaning performing better than expected for your size or level, not literal boxing.
Common pairings
punching bag
punching above your weight
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Word forms
- Plural
- punchings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of tickets slowed the queue down.
Related words
Rhymes for punching
See all rhymes for punching →Frequently asked questions
What does “punching” mean?
The word “punching” means the act of hitting with the fist or making holes with a punch. In plain terms, the act of striking with a fist, or of making holes.
How do you pronounce “punching”?
“Punching” is pronounced PUHNT-shihng (/ˈpʌnt͡ʃɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “punching” in a sentence?
Here is “punching” used in a sentence: “The punching of tickets slowed the queue down.”
What part of speech is “punching”?
“Punching” is a noun.
Is “punching” a common word?
“Punching” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between punching and hitting?
Punching specifically refers to striking with a closed fist, while hitting is a broader term that can involve any part of the body or an object. All punching is a form of hitting, but not all hitting is punching.
Does punching only refer to hitting with a fist?
No, punching also describes the act of making holes in a material using a tool called a punch, such as punching a hole in paper or leather. The word covers both the physical strike and this mechanical piercing action.
Is punching used differently in boxing compared to everyday speech?
In boxing and other combat contexts, punching refers to a trained, technical strike thrown as part of a fight or sparring session. In everyday speech it can describe any casual or aggressive act of hitting someone with the fist.
