Search Dictionary
Definition of cheap shot

cheap shot

Plural:cheap shots
JUMP TO:

• noun

1

A cruel, unfair, or opportunistic verbal criticism directed at a vulnerable person or target.

Example

"Bringing up his past financial struggles during the debate was a real cheap shot."

2

An intentional, unsportsmanlike physical blow or foul delivered against an unprepared or defenseless opponent in sports.

Example

"The referee ejected the linebacker after he delivered a cheap shot to the quarterback after the whistle."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for cheap shot
Antonyms
View all antonyms for cheap shot

• Nearby Words

cheaha
cheaha falls
cheap
cheap shot
cheapen
cheapie
cheapish

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cheap shot. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cheap-shot
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.