Meaning & Definition of word "Blow"

Blow

/bloʊ/

noun:

  • 1. A sudden stroke or impact.
    • Example: The boxer delivered a powerful blow to his rival.
  • 2. An act of blowing air, typically for a specific purpose.
    • Example: He took a blow on the horn to signal the start of the race.
  • 3. A setback or misfortune.
    • Example: Losing the match was a big blow to her confidence.

verb:

  • 1. To produce a current of air by respiration or movement.
    • Example: She blew out the candles on her birthday cake.
  • 2. To move, or cause to move, with a rushing or violent force.
    • Example: The wind blew fiercely during the storm.
  • 3. To strike or hit with force.
    • Example: He blew a punch that knocked his opponent down.
  • 4. To explode or be destroyed by an explosive force.
    • Example: The factory blew up due to a gas leak.

Etymology

Old English 'blāwan', related to the German 'blasen' and Dutch 'blazen'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

blow off steam:

To release pent-up energy or emotion, often by engaging in a physical activity.

blow your mind:

To astonish or amaze someone.

blow the whistle:

To report misconduct or alert authorities.

Related Words

blowout:

A sudden failure of a tire or a wild celebration.

blowhard:

A person who boasts or brags excessively.

Slang Meanings of blow

Meaning: To fail at something spectacularly.

Example Sentence: He really blew it during the presentation.

Meaning: To be bored or unimpressed.

Example Sentence: That movie was a total blow.