Search
Select the dictionary language
to knock back
01
to drink quickly or consume a beverage in a rapid or forceful manner
Examples
He often knocks back a few glasses of beer after work to unwind.
They 've been knocking back shots of tequila all night, celebrating their friend's birthday.
02
to cost someone a significant amount of money
Dialect
British
BritishExamples
The new car knocked them back several thousand dollars.
The unexpected medical expenses are really knocking them back financially.
03
to prevent someone from succeeding or making further advancements
DialectBritish
BritishExamples
The rejection of their grant application really knocked them back.
The ongoing economic crisis is knocking many businesses back, hindering their growth and development.
04
to shock someone with unexpected information or events
DialectBritish
BritishExamples
The news of his sudden illness really knocks everyone back.
The unexpected cancellation of the event is really knocking people back.
