knock over

verb

knocked over; knocking over; knocks over

transitive verb

1

a(1)

: to strike to the ground : fell

(2)

: overwhelm

was knocked over by the news

b

: eliminate

knocked over every difficulty

2

a

: steal

especially : hijack

knocks over a truckload of merchandise

—J. B. Martin

b

: rob

knocking over a bank

Synonyms

• burglarize
• burgle
• knock off
• rip off
• rob
• steal (from)
• take off [slang]

Examples of knock over in a Sentence

he knocked over six convenience stores before getting caught

knocked me over trying to get out the door

Recent Examples on the Web

Chuckle at cats in r/pics Search Google for information on why orange cats are so nefarious Watch a video compilation on YouTube of cats knocking over vases Arrive at work. —Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 30 Oct. 2024

However, the biggest development in the case comes when Howard’s cadaver dog accidentally knocks over Sazz’s remains — which, fittingly for a stunt person, have already gone through so much. —Tom Smyth, Vulture, 1 Oct. 2024

Many people could be seen rushing to enter the building, several people were lying on the ground, and barriers were knocked over. —Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 26 Oct. 2024

But even if it does get knocked over, the padding at the top will protect irons and woods alike. —Red Fabbri, Travel + Leisure, 6 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1814, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)