once-over

American  

[wuhns-oh-ver] / ˈwʌnsˌoʊ vər /

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.

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once-over British  

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 )

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Etymology

Origin of once-over

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

She peeked inside and gave him a once-over.

From Literature

The morning of The Big Prep Day, I start by giving everything a proper once-over: counters cleared, knives sharp, music queued, coffee poured.

From Salon

She gave me and my finery the once-over.

From Literature

Less costly inspections will still have someone under the car doing all the things that many sellers have already done – looking for leaks, inspecting axles and tires, and giving the car a good once-over.

From Seattle Times

If you like grilling, it’s important to give your grill a once-over before the first big cookout of the season.

From New York Times