Punch vs Poke - What's the Difference?

Poke

Punch

Definitions

Definition as Noun
  • someone who takes more time than necessary; someone who lags behind
  • a sharp hand gesture (resembling a blow)
  • tall coarse perennial American herb having small white flowers followed by blackish-red berries on long drooping racemes; young fleshy stems are edible; berries and root are poisonous
  • (boxing) a blow with the fist
  • a bag made of paper or plastic for holding customer's purchases
Definition as Noun
  • an iced mixed drink usually containing alcohol and prepared for multiple servings; normally served in a punch bowl
  • (boxing) a blow with the fist
  • a tool for making holes or indentations
Definition as Verb
  • stir by poking
  • make a hole by poking
  • search or inquire in a meddlesome way
  • poke or thrust abruptly
  • hit hard with the hand, fist, or some heavy instrument
Definition as Verb
  • drive forcibly as if by a punch
  • make a hole into or between, as for ease of separation
  • deliver a quick blow to

Examples

  • "he warned me with a jab with his finger"; "he made a thrusting motion with his fist"
  • "I gave him a clout on his nose"
  • "poke the embers in the fireplace"
  • "This guy is always nosing around the office"
  • "he jabbed his finger into her ribs"
  • "the salesman pounded the door knocker"; "a bible-thumping Southern Baptist"
  • "I gave him a clout on his nose"
  • "the nail punched through the wall"
  • "perforate the sheets of paper"
  • "he punched me in the stomach"

Parts of Speech

Noun, Verb
Noun, Verb