Punt

/pʌnt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A kick made by dropping the ball from the hands and kicking it before it touches the ground.

The game changed when the kicker made an impressive punt.

A decision to defer or postpone an issue or action.

We need to make a decision soon, but we might have to take a punt on this matter until next week.

verb

To kick (a ball) to a distance down the field, typically in football.

The player decided to punt the ball instead of attempting a risky pass.

To give up on an initiative or task and pass it on to someone else.

After much debate, we decided to punt the decision to the board for further review.

Originates from the early 19th century, possibly from a variant of the word ‘punt’ meaning to 'prick' or 'punch'.

to punt on something

To decide not to proceed with an action or decision, effectively passing it to someone else.

punt the ball

To perform a kick with a ball as part of a game.

punter

A person who bets or wagers, often in gambling contexts.

punting

The act of kicking the ball; also refers to betting practices.

To mentally or emotionally disengage from a situation.

I just decided to punt on the whole conversation.

To pass an obligation or decision to someone else.

I’m going to punt this issue to my manager.