knockout
UK: ˈnɒkaʊt | US: ˈnɑːkaʊt
n. 1. The act of rendering someone unconscious, especially in boxing.
n. 2. A highly impressive or attractive person or thing.
adj. 1. Capable of causing unconsciousness (e.g., a knockout punch).
adj. 2. Extremely striking or effective.
The word "knockout" originated in the early 19th century, combining "knock" (from Old English cnocian, meaning "to strike") and "out" (from Old English ūt, meaning "beyond limits"). Initially used in boxing to describe a blow that renders an opponent unconscious ("knocked out"), it later expanded metaphorically to describe anything overwhelmingly impressive or decisive. The morphemes preserve their original meanings while blending into a vivid compound.
The boxer delivered a powerful knockout in the third round.
Her performance was a knockout, earning a standing ovation.
He wore a knockout dress to the gala.
The new product is a knockout success in the market.
The scientist developed a knockout model for the experiment.