wallop
UK: ˈwɒləp | US: ˈwɑːləp
n. a heavy blow or punch
vt. to strike or hit forcefully
n. (informal) a powerful effect or impact
The word "wallop" originated from the Old French "waloper" (to gallop or boil vigorously), likely imitative of the sound of a horse's hooves or bubbling liquid. Over time, it evolved in Middle English to mean "to boil violently," then metaphorically shifted to describe forceful hitting or striking, emphasizing the idea of impact. The reduplicative "-op" suffix reinforces the sense of abrupt, heavy motion or sound.
He gave the door a wallop with his fist to open it.
The boxer walloped his opponent with a right hook.
The news of the scandal really walloped the company's reputation.
She walloped the ball out of the park during the game.
The storm walloped the coastal town, causing severe damage.