punch

noun (1)

\ ˈpənch

Definition of punch

(Entry 1 of 4)

1a : a tool usually in the form of a short rod of steel that is variously shaped at one end for different operations (such 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)

e : a medical instrument used especially to perforate tissue or remove a small, round segment of tissue (such as skin) a biopsy punch

2 : a hole or notch from a perforating operation

punch

verb

punched; punching; punches

Definition of punch (Entry 2 of 4)

transitive verb

1a : prod, poke

b : drive, herd punching cattle

2a : to strike with a forward thrust especially of the fist

b : to drive or push forcibly by or as if by a punch

c : to hit (a ball) with less than a full swing

3 : to emboss, cut, perforate, or make with or as if with a punch

4a : to push down so as to produce a desired result punch buttons on a jukebox

b : to hit or press down the operating mechanism of punch a typewriter

c : to insert a time card into (a time clock)

d : to produce by or as if by punching keys punch out a tune on the piano

e : to enter (something, such as data) by punching keys

5 : to give emphasis to

intransitive verb

1 : to perform the action of punching something

2 : to move or push forward especially by a sudden forceful effort punched into enemy territory

punch

noun (2)

Definition of punch (Entry 3 of 4)

1 : the action of punching

2 : a quick blow with or as if with the fist

3 : effective energy or forcefulness a story that packs a punch political punch

to the punch

: to the first blow or to decisive action —usually used with beat

punch

noun (3)

Definition of punch (Entry 4 of 4)

: a hot or cold drink that is usually a combination of hard liquor, wine, or beer and nonalcoholic beverages also : a drink that is a mixture of nonalcoholic beverages

Other Words from punch Synonyms More Example Sentences Phrases Containing punch Learn More About punch

Examples of punch in a Sentence

Verb He punched me in the face. She punched him on the chin. He quickly punched the buttons on his telephone. She punched an opening through the dough with her finger. The tool punches holes in paper.