strike
UK: straɪk | US: straɪk
v. to hit forcibly and deliberately
v. to refuse to work as a form of protest
v. to discover or find something (e.g., gold, oil)
n. an act of hitting or attacking
n. a refusal to work organized by employees
The word "strike" originates from Old English strīcan, meaning "to stroke, rub, or hit." It shares roots with Old High German strīhhan (to stroke) and Latin stringere (to draw tight, graze). The modern sense of "hitting forcibly" emerged in Middle English, while the labor-related meaning ("work stoppage") arose in the 18th century, metaphorically likening collective worker action to a sudden blow against employers.
The boxer managed to strike his opponent with a swift left hook.
Workers decided to strike for better wages and safer conditions.
The explorers were thrilled to strike gold in the riverbed.
Lightning can strike the same place twice.
The clock will strike twelve at midnight.