punch

\ 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