Kickass

Part of speech: adjective, noun

Definitions

1. Highly effective or impressive in quality or performance ; physically or mentally tough and strong, showing determination
2. Exceptionally good or powerful, often inspiring admiration ; demonstrating strength, resilience, or boldness in character or action
3. Remarkably excellent or outstanding in ability or style ; exhibiting toughness and a forceful presence that commands respect

Etymology: "Kickass" is a compound of "kick" and "-ass," the second element being the slang noun "ass" in its sense of the buttocks, a use that has long been part of informal English. The "ass" element here is the same one that appears in the older phrase "to kick ass," meaning to assert dominance or to thrash someone, which is where the adjective's sense of forceful, aggressive capability comes from. The meaning then broadened. Something described as "kick-ass" is not literally violent or physical; it is simply the most intense or effective version of its kind, whether a film, a performance, or a determined person. The spelling was written with a hyphen, but "kickass" as one closed word is now an accepted alternative.

Synonyms: awesome, fantastic, impressive

Antonyms: unimpressive, mediocre