sockdolager etymology

Etymology:

The word "sockdolager" is a portmanteau of two words:

  • Sock (noun): A knitted or woven covering for the foot
  • Dolager (noun): A large axe

Meaning:

A sockdolager is:

  • A knockout blow or decisive stroke
  • Something that has a powerful or devastating effect
  • A person who is exceptionally skilled or formidable

Origin:

The term "sockdolager" originated in the mid-19th century in the United States. It was first used in the context of boxing, where it referred to a punch that knocked out an opponent. The term was later adopted in other contexts to describe a decisive or overwhelming action or person.

Usage:

"Sockdolager" is typically used in a figurative sense to describe something that is extremely powerful or effective:

  • "The company's new advertising campaign is a sockdolager."
  • "That pitcher has a sockdolager of a fastball."
  • "She's a sockdolager in the courtroom."

sockdolager relate terms

  • doxology

    Etymology From Late Latin doxologia from Greek δοξολογία doxologia from δ

  • sock

    Etymology The word sock comes from the Middle English word sok which is derived fro

  • smack

    Etymology The word smack has multiple origins Old English smæcc a taste a kis

  • slog

    Etymology The word slog has its origins in the Middle English word slugge meaning

  • enthusiasm

    Etymology Enthusiasm comes from the Greek word enthousiasmos which means divine in

  • conceit

    Etymology The word conceit derives from the Latin word conceptus meaning conception

  • magic

    Etymology The word magic is derived from the Greek word magikos which means of the Ma

  • stoke

    Etymology The word stoke has its origins in two Old English words stocian verb

  • conjure

    Etymology Latin conjuro meaning to swear to bind by oath Proto Indo European root

  • ballpark

    Etymology The term ballpark originated in the 19th century from the early days of baseb

  • subtle

    Etymology Sub Latin prefix meaning under slightly or less Tilis Latin adjec

  • innocent

    Etymology The word innocent comes from the Latin word innocens which means harmles

  • conciliate

    Etymology Latin conciliare to call together reconcile Con together calare to