pile driver

noun

1. a machine for driving piles, usually composed of a tall framework in which either a weight is raised and dropped on a pile head or in which a steam hammer drives the pile.

2. a person who operates such a machine.

3. a person who hits or attacks forcefully or powerfully.

4. Wrestling.,  a move whereby an opponent is turned upside down and slammed headfirst to the mat.

5. British Sports.,  a powerful stroke, hit, kick, etc.

pile-driver

noun

1. a machine that drives piles into the ground either by repeatedly allowing a heavy weight to fall on the head of the pile or by using a steam hammer

2. informal,  a forceful punch or kick

Word History and Origins

Origin of pile-driver¹

First recorded in 1765–75