Punching

Part of speech: noun, verb

Pronunciation: /ˈpʌnt͡ʃɪŋ/

Definitions

1. The act of hitting someone or something with a closed fist ; creating an opening in material using a sharp tool and force ; pressing firmly or hitting with force for an effect
2. A blow delivered with a clenched hand ; producing a hole by driving a pointed device through an object ; applying strong pressure or impact to affect shape or function
3. Striking by thrusting the fist forward ; forming a perforation in materials by mechanical impact ; exerting force through pressing or striking to achieve a purpose

Etymology: The word is a straightforward formation: "punch" with the suffix "-ing" added. The suffix comes down from Old English "-ung" and Middle English "-ynge", a noun-forming ending that turned actions into things, so "punching" names the act of hitting or piercing. The verb "punch" it builds on is the older element, and its own origins are the more tangled part of the story. The main thing a reader should know is that the verb is the base here, and the "-ing" simply makes an action a noun. The same ending turns "hunt" into "hunting" or "build" into "building", so the word follows a familiar pattern rather than a special one.

Synonyms: striking, hitting, blow, thumping, pummeling

Antonyms: caressing, gentleness, softness, kindness, tenderness