palooka

[ puh-loo-kuh ]

noun

, Slang.

1. an athlete, especially a boxer, lacking in ability, experience, or competitive spirit.
2. a stupid, clumsy person.

palooka

/ pəˈluːkə /

noun

1. slang.
   a stupid or clumsy boxer or other person

Word History and Origins

Origin of palooka¹

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of palooka¹

C20: origin uncertain

Example Sentences

Unfazed, Bugs Bunny says, “Watch me paste this pathetic palooka with a powerful paralyzing perfect pachydermous percussion pitch.”

From Washington Post

Related Words

• boxer
• clodhopper
• fighter
• lummox