knockdown
knockdown Lexical Profile
knockdown Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An act or instance of knocking an opponent to the ground or canvas, especially in boxing or combat sports.
"The challenger scored a crucial knockdown in the eighth round to win on points."
An experimental technique in molecular biology by which the expression of one or more of an organism's genes is reduced.
"Researchers used a targeted gene knockdown to study the protein's role in cell division."
The sudden, temporary capsizing of a sailboat to a horizontal position caused by a strong gust of wind.
"The crew secured all loose gear on deck after surviving a terrifying knockdown in the squall."
• adjective
Overwhelming, decisive, or forceful enough to defeat an opponent or settle an issue.
"The defense attorney presented a knockdown argument that convinced the entire jury."
British Drastically reduced or very low (especially of a price or cost).
"They bought the antique dining set at a knockdown price during the estate auction."
Constructed in sections so as to be easily disassembled for transport or storage and reassembled later.
"The company specializes in knockdown bookshelves that ship flat in cardboard boxes."
Word Nuance & Usage
Use 'knockdown' (one word, or hyphenated as an adjective) for the noun or modifier, and 'knock down' (two words) for the phrasal verb meaning to strike to the ground or demolish.
• Rhymes for knockdown
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.