pummel

verb

pum·​mel ˈpə-məl 

pummeled also pummelled; pummeling also pummelling ˈpə-mə-liŋ 

ˈpəm-liŋ

: pound, beat

Synonyms of pummel

• lick
• hide
• pound
• beat
• lash
• whip
• pelt
• slap
• hit
• knock
• attack
• punch
• smash
• assault
• thump
• spank
• do
• slam
• batter
• bludgeon
• maul

Examples of pummel in a Sentence

pummeled the mugger with her fists until help arrived

Recent Examples on the Web

On second-and-7 early in overtime against Seattle, quarterback Sam Darnold had already been pummeled by Vance Joseph’s defense. — Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 6 Nov. 2026

As habitat loss, pesticides and climate change pummel monarch populations, the research could help their numbers rebound. — ABC News, 3 Nov. 2026

Kyiv has been pummeled by Russian missiles and drones in recent weeks. — Gerard Toal, The Conversation, 27 Oct. 2026

The force of the helicopter blades pummeled the water, whipping up spray and turbulence. — Jaimie Ding, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

alteration of pommel

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pummel

• hummel

Kids Definition

pummel

verb

pum·​mel ˈpəm-əl 

pummeled or pummelled; pummeling or pummelling -(ə-)liŋ 

1

: pound entry 3 sense 2a, beat

knead and pummel the dough

2

: to defeat decisively

pummeled the competition