once-over

[ wuhns-oh-ver ]

noun

, Informal.

1. a quick look, examination, or appraisal.
2. a quick, superficial job:

   He gave the car just a once-over with a rag.

once-over

noun

1. a quick examination or appraisal
2. a quick but comprehensive piece of work
3. a violent beating or thrashing (esp in the phrase give ( a person or thing ) the (or a ) once-over )

Word History and Origins

Origin of once-over¹

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

The two men give each other a once-over, in a way that suggests, why not?

From The Daily Beast

I always find I can get along better after givin' it a once-over, no matter how well I know it.'

From Project Gutenberg

The other, interested, gave them a searching once-over before he pushed a small scriber toward Rip.

From Project Gutenberg

I give her my usual approving once-over, just in case I miss something the last ninety-six approving once-overs I give her.

From Project Gutenberg

He was shown directly to my office, and I gave him a quick once-over as he came in the door.

From Project Gutenberg

Besides, those Brungarian scientists are probably giving him the once-over with all sorts of electronic doodads.

From Project Gutenberg