upper-cut
Definition
Noun:
- A punch in boxing: An "uppercut" is a short, upward punch thrown from the waist or chest, typically aimed at the opponent's chin or jaw. It is delivered with the palm facing inward and the arm bent.
Verb:
- To strike with an uppercut: The act of hitting someone with such a punch, usually in boxing or combat sports.
Usage Examples
Noun:
- The boxer knocked his opponent out with a powerful uppercut to the jaw. (A short, upward punch that ended the fight.)
Verb:
- He uppercutted his rival in the final round, securing the victory. (He struck with an upward punch.)
Advanced Usage
"to throw an uppercut": to execute or deliver this specific punch.
- She practiced throwing an uppercut from close range during training. (She rehearsed the technique.)
"uppercut in a combination": a sequence of punches that includes this move.
- The fighter followed a jab with an uppercut to confuse his opponent. (A strategic series of blows.)
Variants and Related Words
Uppercutting (adj): describing a motion or technique involving such a punch.
- He used an uppercutting motion to break the opponent's guard. (The upward striking action.)
Uppercutted (verb, past tense): struck with an uppercut.
- She was uppercutted twice during the match. (Hit with upward punches.)
Synonyms
- Hook: a similar short punch, but delivered sideways rather than upward.
- Jab: a quick, straight punch, not upward.
Phrasal Verbs
Uppercut into: to deliver an uppercut that connects with a specific target.
- He uppercutted into the opponent's ribs, forcing him to drop his guard. (Struck upward into a body part.)
Uppercut through: to punch upward so that it breaks through a defense.
- She uppercutted through his raised arms, landing on his chin. (Punched upward past guard.)
Related Idioms
- "Throw an uppercut": to make a sudden, powerful upward move, often metaphorically in competitive situations.
- In the debate, she threw an uppercut of logic that left her opponent speechless. (A sharp, effective argument.)