knock over

verb

knocked over; knocking over; knocks over
Synonyms of knock overnext

transitive verb

1
a(1)
: to strike to the ground : fell
(2)
: overwhelm
was knocked over by the news
b
: eliminate
knocked over every difficulty
2
a
: steal
especially : hijack
… knocks over a truckload of merchandise … —J. B. Martin
b
: rob
knocking over a bank

Synonyms of knock over

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Examples of knock over in a Sentence

he knocked over six convenience stores before getting caught knocked me over trying to get out the door
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Use containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent spills in case they are knocked over. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 16 June 2026 Framed photos fell off the walls and a computer monitor was knocked over, Harris said. — ABC News, 24 June 2026 During a rundown play between third and home, a Verdugo Hills runner knocked over the Roosevelt third baseman. — Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2026 The explosion destroyed the rocket and the transporter erector tower that was holding the rocket in place, and also knocked over one of the two lightning towers at the site. — Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for knock over

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1814, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Time Traveler
The first known use of knock over was circa 1814

Rhymes for knock over

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Browse Nearby Words

knockout drops
knock over
knock poker
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Knock over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/knock%20over. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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