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

Explanation

If you quickly survey today's cafeteria offerings, you give them a once-over. After this swift once-over, you'll probably order the pizza again, like you do every day. Once-over is an informal noun, a great way to describe any brief inspection, search, or examination. When you're signing a contract, it's smart to read it carefully rather than just giving it a once-over. But when you're choosing a piece of Halloween candy from the basket your neighbor is offering, it's fine to grab one after a once-over. This American English slang term was coined at the beginning of the twentieth century.

Example Sentences

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 • Apr. 17, 2024

After 10 minutes I give my work a good once-over.

From New York Times • Sep. 24, 2022

Using your favorite all-purpose cleaner, give the exterior of your washing machine a good once-over.

From Salon • Jul. 30, 2022

After tidying up the room and doing a final once-over, the 52-year-old was done chit-chatting and impatient to start his day, collecting recyclables.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 29, 2022

Mr. Ray stood there for a second and gave me a once-over, as if he was upset that I was trying to work in Cluck Bucket.

From "The Boy in the Black Suit" by Jason Reynolds