Blow

Part of speech: verb, noun

Pronunciation: /bləʊ/

Definitions

1. A forceful movement of air, or to push air from the mouth, or a hard hit with a fist or object
2. A forceful expulsion of air from the mouth or movement of air in a specific direction | A sudden strike delivered with the hand or an object | The act of causing something to move or break apart through a sudden force or impact
3. A sudden release of air or a gust moving in a direction, a sharp impact delivered by the hand or a tool, and the act of forcing an object to move or break due to a strong force

Etymology: Before becoming a versatile English word, this term likely originated from Old English "blāwan," which meant "to blow, breathe, or swell." Its roots probably trace back further to Proto-Germanic "*blōan," carrying the same sense of moving air. This lineage connects it to related words in other Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "blása" and German "blasen," both meaning "to blow." In its earliest uses, the word described the physical action of air moving, whether by the wind or human breath. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to include striking or hitting, as if propelled by a forceful gust. This shift is evident in Middle English, where it could mean both to blow air and to deliver a blow to someone. The noun form developed from this sense of a sudden, forceful strike or gust. It came to signify a single impact or burst of air, such as a "blow" of wind or a "blow" in boxing. The word’s adaptability allowed it to take on abstract meanings as well, referring to emotional shocks or setbacks, as though one had been figuratively hit by an unexpected force. Phonetically, the pronunciation has remained fairly stable over centuries, with the long "o" sound characteristic of many English words derived from Old English verbs. Its simple form and broad semantic range have helped it become a common and enduring part of English vocabulary.

Synonyms: strike, hit, impact, punch, whack

Antonyms: caress, gentleness, shelter