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

She peeked inside and gave him a once-over.

Read more on Literature

“You’re a mathematician?” she asked, giving my blouse, my skirt, and my black pumps the once-over.

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

Read more on Salon

She gave me and my finery the once-over.

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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.

Read more on Seattle Times