Pummeling: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe someone hitting or striking repeatedly with force. It can refer to both physical and metaphorical situations, such as criticism or difficult challenges.

• The boxer was pummeling his opponent into the corner.
• She felt like life was pummeling her with one problem after another.

Can be used in various contexts, from physically striking someone or something to defeating an opponent or overcoming a challenge. It can also be used metaphorically.

• The drummer beat the drums with enthusiasm.
• They worked together to beat the odds and succeed.

Often refers to hitting or beating repeatedly, usually with the intention to cause harm or damage. Can also describe someone moving violently or uncontrollably.

• The monster thrashed its tail angrily.
• The team thrashed their rivals in the final match.

Usually involves repeated heavy strikes, often with great force. Can be used for both physical hitting and metaphorical pounding, such as loud noises or strong influences.

• He pounded the nail into the wood with a hammer.
• Her heart was pounding with excitement.

Generally used to describe being repeatedly struck or hit, especially by natural elements like wind or waves. Less commonly used for physical fights.

• The ship was buffeted by strong waves.
• The wind buffeted against the windows all night.

Used to describe repeatedly hitting someone or something with fists or objects, often in a rapid, continuous manner.

• The boxer gave his opponent a relentless pummeling in the final round
• The rain pummeled the windows throughout the night

Used to describe repeated and heavy blows, often implying significant damage or emotional harm; frequently seen in the context of domestic violence.

• The ship took a battering in the storm
• She suffered years of emotional and physical battering in her marriage

Typically used in a legal or physical context to describe a sudden, violent attack on someone; can involve physical violence or verbal aggression.

• He was charged with assault after the bar fight
• The verbal assault left her feeling shaken

Refers to a harsh or brutal physical punishment or attack; often implies repeated hitting.

• The gang gave him a severe beating for trespassing
• The team took a beating during the championship game

Informal term often used to describe a decisive defeat, typically in a sports or competitive context; can imply a thorough or humiliating loss.

• The home team took an unexpected drubbing in the match
• They gave their opponents a sound drubbing