knock dead

phrase

Synonyms of knock deadnext
: to move strongly especially to admiration or applause
a comedian who really knocks them dead

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of knock dead was in 1889

Rhymes for knock dead

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Browse Nearby Words

knock cold
knock dead
knockdown
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Knock dead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/knock%20dead. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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