Knock somebody dead
verb phrase
To impress people very much.
He played the piano beautifully and knocked everybody dead at the party.
Often appears as...
- knock them dead
- knock everyone dead
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
verb phrase
To make someone faint or fall asleep instantly.
The medicine was so strong, it knocked her dead then and there.
Often appears as...
- knock him dead
- medicine knocked her dead
verb phrase
To impress people very much.
He played the piano beautifully and knocked everybody dead at the party.
Often appears as...
- knock them dead
- knock everyone dead
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
verb phrase
To make someone faint or fall asleep instantly.
The medicine was so strong, it knocked her dead then and there.
Often appears as...
- knock him dead
- medicine knocked her dead
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Impression
Use when someone does something so well it astounds others.
Lisa's speech was so compelling, it knocked everybody dead.
Pro Tip 2/3Colloquial Usage
Common in casual speech or writing, but not in formal situations.
His jokes aren't just funny, they'll knock you dead!
Pro Tip 3/3Performance Context
Often used to describe outstanding performance in arts, sports, or business.
With her flawless dance, she knocked the judges dead.
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