Synonyms

knockdown

American

[nok-doun] / ˈnɒkˌdaʊn /

adjective

capable of knocking something down; overwhelming; irresistible.

a knockdown blow.
constructed in separate parts that can readily be taken apart for easy storage, shipping, etc..

a knockdown toolshed.
offered or acquired for less than the prevailing rate.

first-rate goods at knockdown prices.

noun

a knockdown object.
an act or instance of knocking down, especially by a blow.
something that fells or overwhelms.
reduction or lowering, as in price or number.

The store offered a knockdown of 15 percent to its own employees.
Slang. an introduction, especially to a person.

He gave me a real knockdown to the company.
Nautical. the capsizing of a small boat as a result of a strong gust of wind.

Etymology

Origin of knockdown

First recorded in 1680–90; adj., noun use of verb phrase knock down

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

By the championship rounds, Warrington appeared to need a knockdown, but there was little sign of one coming.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

The referee stopped the contest after the fourth knockdown and a jubilant Williamson claimed Simpson's belts.

From BBC • Dec. 20, 2025

The AZ Alkmaar forward then sparked wild Irish celebrations as he prodded home Liam Scales's knockdown deep into injury time to send Heimir Hallgrimsson's side into March's play-offs.

From Barron's • Nov. 16, 2025

Linares, a three-division world champion, dropped Morales in the third and fourth rounds, and Morales couldn’t beat the count after the second knockdown.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2025

Probably a knockdown or a knockout, he thought; maybe the brash kid had made good his boast.

From "145th Street: Short Stories" by Walter Dean Myers

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023