Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
gut-punch
noun
ˈɡʌt ˌpʌn(t)ʃ
Definition
A sudden and intense emotional or physical shock or impact.
Examples
- The news of his departure felt like a gut-punch to the entire team.
- She delivered the gut-punch of a punchline that left everyone in stitches.
- Watching the movie’s final scene was a gut-punch that had me in tears.
Meaning
The term ‘gut-punch’ refers to a strong, often unexpected, emotional reaction that feels as if it has hit you in the stomach. It can also describe a literal physical blow to the abdomen.
Synonyms
- shock
- blow
- setback
- stun
- jolt
