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Definitions

haymaker

[hey-mey-ker] / ˈheɪˌmeɪ kər /
NOUN
prize fight
Synonyms
WEAK
bout duel fight fight game fistic sport fisticuffs match prizefighting pugilism slugfest
NOUN
wallop
Synonyms
STRONG
bash belt blow bop bump clash collision crash impact jar jolt kick percussion punch shock slam slug smack smash thump thwack whack

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face, England have taken a haymaker and kept their plans intact.

From BBC • Dec. 3, 2025

The fight was competitive until K-Dot landed the haymaker.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2025

But then comes the real haymaker: Not only is Apple unfairly messing with apps like WhatsApp, but with anyone who sends texts from non-iPhones, period.

From Slate • Mar. 21, 2024

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers had already unloaded almost all of their big hits, including a haymaker pre-encore run featuring high-drama ballads “November Rain” and “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.”

From Seattle Times • Oct. 15, 2023

Joey couldn’t hear what the guy was saying because his ears were still ringing from his sparring partner’s accidental haymaker.

From "Lawn Boy Returns" by Gary Paulsen

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.