Phrase guide

strike a stroke

verb · 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

verb

Meaning 1

To hit (especially with a sword); to successfully land a hit.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: archaic

Examples

  • 1625, Samuel Purchas, Purchas His Pilgrimes, London: Henry Fetherstone, Part 4, “Voyages to and about the Southerne America,” Chapter 5, section 4, pp. 1395-1396, [...] it is reported, and credibly beleeued, that hee did much more good with his words, and presence, without striking a stroke, then a great part of the Armie did with fighting to the vtmost.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To do something to support or defend (for) or to hinder or harm (at / against) something or someone.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: archaic, figuratively

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.