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punch-up

American  
[puhnch-uhp] / ˈpʌntʃˌʌp /

noun

Slang.
  1. punch-out.


punch-up British  

noun

  1. informal a fight, brawl, or violent argument

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of punch-up

1955–60; noun use of verb phrase punch ( it ) up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“I’m just trying to get me and my kids out of this town before it explodes,” growls Mary when Valerie presses her to punch up one of Al’s substandard scripts.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

The Cheetahs are a compact, spirited outfit led by veteran striker Steve Mounie, but lack punch up front.

From Barron's • Jan. 1, 2026

If you know you’re about to be canceled it’s hard to go into the other room and punch up the scripts.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 23, 2025

In 2016, there were allegations of a punch up between two UK Independence Party members of the European Parliament.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2025

"I shouldn't think one could make good hot mixed punch up in a balloon, now," observed Mr. Bagges, reflectively.

From Harper's New Monthly Magazine, Vol. 2, No. 8, January, 1851 by Various

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