Main Entry:

¹punch

Pronunciation:

\ˈpənch\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English pounce, punche, probably alteration of ponson, ponchon puncheon

Date:

14th century

1 a: a tool usually in the form of a short rod of steel that is variously shaped at one end for different operations (as forming, perforating, embossing, or cutting) b: a short tapering steel rod for driving the heads of nails below a surface c: a steel die faced with a letter in relief that is forced into a softer metal to form an intaglio matrix from which foundry type is cast d: a device or machine for cutting holes or notches (as in paper or cardboard)2: a hole or notch from a perforating operation