Phrase guide

left hook

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

A powerful punch thrown with the left hand, typically after a jab or a straight punch.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Topics: boxing, government, hobbies, lifestyle, martial-arts, military, politics, sports, war

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: hook, punch, blow

2

noun

Meaning 2

A surprise assault.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively, idiomatic

Qualifier: occasionally

Examples

  • Just when he thought that the cross-examination was over and he'd parried the questions successfully, one of the lawyers stood up and threw a left hook that left him spluttering.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

3 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: vasen koukku — Translations
  • French: crochet du gauche — Translations
  • Polish: lewy sierpowy — Translations