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• sucker-punch
  sucker-punch

  verb (used with object)

  to strike (someone) with an unexpected blow.
• sucker punch
  sucker punch

  noun

  a sudden surprise punch, esp from behind

sucker-punch

American  

[suhk-er-puhnch] / ˈsʌk ərˌpʌntʃ /

verb (used with object)

Slang.

1. to strike (someone) with an unexpected blow.

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sucker punch British  

noun

1. a sudden surprise punch, esp from behind

2. a sudden unexpected defeat or setback

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sucker punch Idioms  

1. An unexpected blow, as in They felt that suddenly raising the interest rate was a sucker punch to the administration. This expression comes from boxing, where it is used for a punch delivered unexpectedly; boxing great Jack Dempsey wrote, “The right lead [for a right-handed boxer] is called a sucker punch.” [Slang; mid-1900s]

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Other Word Forms

• sucker punch
  noun

Example Sentences

Sucker punch: In theaters where this movie is playing, it's a beverage sold at the concession stand.

From Time • Mar. 25, 2011