Synonyms for

Kicking

Verb / ˈkɪkɪŋ / Another word for kicking — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to strike or hit something with the foot

Synonyms & similar words

recoil plain quetch giveup boot kickback soundoff complain kick kvetch cheer booting punting striking hitting thumping slamming smacking whacking pounding banging hurling flinging tossing throwing launching propelling pushing shoving jabbing poking

Synonyms by register

Formal

striking impacting propelling thrusting

Informal

booting thumping punting smacking

Literary

flogging lashing flagellating

Antonyms

stopping ceasing halting resting holding abstaining

Common collocations

  • kicking a ball
  • kicking a habit
  • kicking off
  • kicking around
  • kicking yourself
  • kicking the bucket
  • kicking down
  • kicking back

Word family

noun kick
verb kick
adjective kicking

Usage note

The word 'kicking' can refer to the physical act of striking with the foot, or metaphorically to stopping a habit or starting an event. Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. I was kicking the ball around with my friends at the park.
  2. The little boy kept kicking the back of my seat on the bus.
  3. The soccer player scored a goal by kicking the ball into the net.
  4. I hurt my foot while kicking the heavy bag at the gym.
  5. The horse was kicking its hind legs in the air.

Quotes

  • I have a great left foot and I'm not afraid to use it! - David Beckham
  • You can't score if you don't shoot. - Johan Cruyff
  • Soccer is simple, but it is difficult to play simple. - Johan Cruyff

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