Synonyms for

Punching

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

Definition

The act of striking someone or something with the fist.

Synonyms & similar words

plug perforate punch hitting striking slugging smacking beating pummeling socking bashing slapping thrashing whacking clobbering pounding thumping whaling flogging lashing bludgeoning mauling clubbing

Synonyms by register

Formal

striking assaulting hitting

Informal

bopping thwacking walloping socking

Literary

fencing sparring

Antonyms

caressing stroking patting tickling soothing comforting

Common collocations

  • punching bag
  • punching down
  • punching through
  • punching holes
  • punching someone
  • punching the air

Word family

noun punch
verb punch
adjective punchy

Usage note

While 'punching' can refer to the act of striking with a fist, it is also commonly used metaphorically to describe criticism or attacks, often in a negative context like 'punching down'.

Example sentences

  1. She was punching the air in excitement.
  2. He was punching holes in the paper with the hole puncher.
  3. The boxer was punching the bag with all his might.
  4. She was punching the bully to defend herself.
  5. He was punching the dough to make bread.

Quotes

  • I'm not in this world to live up to your expectations and you're not in this world to live up to mine. - Bruce Lee
  • Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. - Muhammad Ali
  • You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. - Wayne Gretzky

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