punch-out

1 of 2

noun

ˈpənch-ˌau̇t How to pronounce punch-out (audio)
Synonyms of punch-outnext
1
: fistfight
2
: strikeout

punch out

2 of 2

verb

punched out; punching out; punches out

intransitive verb

1
: to record the time of one's stopping work or departure by punching a time clock
2
: to bail out of an aircraft using an ejection seat

transitive verb

1
: to beat up
2
: strike out

Synonyms of punch-out

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Verb

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Examples of punch-out in a Sentence

Verb you should take a course in anger management—you can't go around punching out people
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.
Noun
Most people aren’t focused on Advent calendars right now — those chocolates hidden under perforated punch-outs to celebrate each day of the season. — Kevin Williams, CNBC, 28 Mar. 2026 During the portion of Thursday’s practice open to reporters, the Patriots practiced punch-out drills directly in front of reporters. — Doug Kyed, Boston Herald, 22 Dec. 2025
Verb
Falcons gain possession with fumble recovery Maason Smith continued a solid game by punching out the football from the grasp of 49ers running back Kaelon Black, a fumble recovered by Gervon Dexter Sr. — AJC.com, 25 Oct. 2026 Rays starter Drew Rasmussen kept that lead strong through five innings, punching out seven. — Alejandro Avila Outkick, FOXNews.com, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for punch-out

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1893, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of punch-out was in 1893

Rhymes for punch-out

See All Rhymes for punch-out

Browse Nearby Words

punch mark
punch-out
punch out
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Punch-out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punch-out. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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