bowl over

verb

bowled over; bowling over; bowls over

transitive verb

1
: to take unawares
2

Examples of bowl over in a Sentence

she was bowled over to learn that she had a long-lost sister
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.
Pour water to a depth of 1 1/2 to 2 inches in a small saucepan, and place a small stainless steel bowl over saucepan to make a double boiler, making sure water does not touch bottom of bowl. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 24 June 2025 The lads were famously bowled over by an early listen, but the record Wilson poured his time into wasn’t an immediate critical or chart success back at home. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 12 June 2025 Cannes was bowled over by Trier’s Sentimental Value, giving it an astounding 15-minute loud, raucous and heartfelt standing ovation. Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 21 May 2025 Drizzle any remaining oil left in the bowl over the chicken. Cathy Thomas, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for bowl over

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bowl over was in 1867

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bowl over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bowl%20over. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

bowl over

verb
1
: to hit and knock down while quickly moving past
2
: to greatly surprise or impress
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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