DictionaryclockHitting hard
verb

clock

To hit someone hard, especially in the head.

The boxer clocks his opponent with a quick left.

Etymology

The striking verb is often connected with clock as slang for a person’s face. On that explanation, to clock someone is to hit the “clock,” later extended beyond a blow specifically to the face.

More examples

  • He was clocked in the jaw during the brawl.
  • She ducked before the attacker could clock her.
  • The fighter nearly clocked the referee by mistake.

Forms

clock · clocks · clocked · clocking

Similar words

punch
Specifies a blow with a closed fist.
strike
Neutral and broader; does not specify a strong punch.