rabbit punch
/ˈræbɪt ˌpʌntʃ/
NOUN
1. An illegal blow to the back of the head or neck
A short, sharp chopping blow delivered to the back of an opponent's head or the base of the skull, particularly in boxing and other combat sports, where it is generally prohibited because of the risk of serious injury.
1.1. Boxing and combat sports
Refers to an illegal punch directed at the back of an opponent's head or neck during a boxing match or other combat-sport contest.
Synonyms
- rabbit punch
- blow to the back of the head
- illegal head strike
- illegal punch
Examples
- The referee warned the boxer after he delivered a rabbit-punch to his opponent.
- The fighter was penalized for landing an illegal blow to the back of the head.
Related Words
- foul
- low blow
- sucker punch
- chopping blow
- boxing penalty
1.2. Violent attacks targeting the back of the head
Refers more generally to a sudden chopping strike aimed at the vulnerable area around the nape of the neck or base of the skull.
Synonyms
- chopping blow
- blow to the nape
- strike to the back of the head
- neck strike
Examples
- The incident report described the attack as a rabbit-punch to the back of the neck.
- The official stopped the contest after an illegal strike landed near the base of the skull.
Related Words
VERB
2. An act of striking someone with a rabbit punch
The act of delivering a short, chopping blow to the back of someone's head or neck.
2.1. Delivering an illegal punch
Describes striking an opponent on the back of the head or neck with a rabbit punch, especially during a fight or boxing match.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The boxer rabbit-punched his opponent and received an official warning.
- The referee disqualified the fighter after he repeatedly struck his opponent behind the head.