trounce
UK: /traʊns/ | US: /traʊns/
vt. to defeat decisively in a competition or conflict
vt. to criticize or punish severely
vt. (archaic) to beat or thrash physically
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The exact origin of "trounce" is uncertain, but it likely emerged in the 16th century as an expressive or imitative term, possibly from dialectal English or French influence. Its forceful sound mirrors its meanings of physical beating or overwhelming defeat. Over time, it evolved to include metaphorical uses like harsh criticism. Unlike many Latinate words, "trounce" resists clear morpheme division, suggesting a compact, vivid origin.
The team trounced their rivals with a 10-0 victory.
The critic trounced the film for its weak plot.
(Archaic) The farmer threatened to trounce the thief if caught.
Despite preparation, she was trounced in the debate.
The new policy was trounced by opposition leaders.