kick-ass

American  

[kik-as] / ˈkɪkˌæs /

Or kickass

adjective

Slang.

1. strikingly or overwhelmingly tough, aggressive, powerful, or effective.

   He finally built himself a kick-ass computer.

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kick ass British  

verb

1. to be impressive, esp in a forceful way

   pop music that kicks ass

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adjective

1. forceful, aggressive, and impressive

kick ass Idioms  

1. Also, kick butt. Punish or discipline harshly; also, defeat soundly. For example, That foreman's furious; he's going to kick ass before the day is over, or Our team is out to kick butt today. [Vulgar slang; 1940s]

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Etymology

Origin of kick-ass

kick + -ass

Example Sentences

Boldest yet, perhaps, was “Tron: Ares” — as a neon thrill ride that doubled as a music video for one of the most kick-ass, ’80s-coded Nine Inch Nails soundtracks.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 1, 2025

The campaign itself has a kick-ass social media team that's churning out memes, TikToks, tweets and Instagram stories that are clever, pointed and tuned in.

From Salon • Sep. 13, 2024

Two new categories this year are best reality on-screen team and best kick-ass cast.

From Seattle Times • May 6, 2023

“First and foremost, we want to make a kick-ass, entertaining, joyful revival production of this great play,” he said.

From New York Times • Feb. 1, 2023

“I’m sure. I’m the producer. All I want you to worry about is making the most kick-ass movie you can make.”

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon