punches
|punch/es|
/ˈpʌn.tʃɪz/
(punch)
forceful impact
Etymology
'punch' originates from Hindi, specifically the word 'pāñc' (from Sanskrit 'pañca'), where 'pañca' meant 'five' (referring to the drink made from five ingredients).
'punch' (the drink) was borrowed into English in the mid-17th century from Hindi/Hindustani 'pāñc' (Sanskrit 'pañca'). The sense 'to strike' (verb) developed later in English (late 17th–18th century), possibly influenced by dialectal terms for striking or by metaphorical extension from the drink's strong effect; over time these senses coexisted and produced the modern verb and noun forms.
Initially it meant 'a drink of five ingredients,' but over time it evolved to include meanings such as 'a forceful hit, a tool for making holes,' and the verb 'to strike with the fist' or 'to make a hole or mark by punching.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'punch' meaning forceful blows delivered with the fist; hits.
The boxer landed several quick punches in the first round.
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Noun 2
plural of 'punch' meaning servings or varieties of the drink 'punch' (a mixed fruit/alcohol beverage).
They served fruit punches at the picnic.
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Noun 3
plural of 'punch' meaning metal tools or stamps used to make holes or impressions (e.g., hole punches).
The craftsman lined up his punches on the workbench.
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Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'punch': to strike someone or something with a fist.
He punches the heavy bag every morning.
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Verb 2
third-person singular present of 'punch': to make a hole or mark using a punch tool, or to register/press (e.g., punch a timecard or punch keys).
She punches the timecard as she arrives at work.
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Last updated: 2025/09/03 11:27