knock back
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To stun; to surprise.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
I was knocked back by the sheer size of the hall.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To drink an alcoholic beverage swiftly or often; to finish a beverage.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To push or strike someone or something backward with force.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “knock back” mean?
To stun; to surprise.
Is “knock back” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.