Below is a list of boxing phrases and terminology commonly used in the sport.
Reset list
Haymaker -
A wild swinging punch thrown with all of the person's weight behind it in an attempt to knockout the other person. You usually see haymakers in street fighting or in the movies. Haymakers are also used in boxing as a last resort. They deliver enough force to break an opponent's jaw. The term first appeared in 1912, perhaps from the 1880 "hit the hay" or "go to sleep".
Headbutt -
A headbutt occurs when a boxer's head is brought forward beyond their leading foot and gloves. The head is then swung left or right or up and down and it strikes the opponent. Headbutts can cause a serious cut or damaging head blow. It's up to the referee to determine whether a headbutt is accidental or intentional.
Hitting on the Break -
Hitting on the break occurs when the referee breaks apart two boxers who are clinching and one boxer immediately hits their opponent instead of taking a mandatory full step back.
Hook -
An inside power punch. It's a short sideways punch delivered with the elbow bent so the arm forms sort of a hook. The temple, side of the jaw, ribs, and liver is the target.
