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.
This Nix lowered his shoulder on one carry and bowled over Jets cornerback Jarvis Brownlee Jr. Luca Evans, Denver Post, 12 Oct. 2025 The Giants won with a fourth-round rookie running back, Cam Skattebo, who bowled over a historically dominant Eagles front for a career-high 98 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 With a notably vivacious aroma and flavor, Heilala bowled over tasters with layered complexity. Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Oct. 2025 After receiving the opening kickoff, the Hawks marched up the field in just over two minutes, as senior running back Kyle Celestin bowled over a tackler on his way to the end zone for a nine-yard touchdown rush. Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 27 Sep. 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 16 Oct. 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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