once-over

noun

ˌwən(t)s-ˈō-vər How to pronounce once-over (audio)
ˈwən(t)s-ˌō-
Synonyms of once-overnext
: a swift examination or survey
especially : a swift comprehensive appraising glance
gave me the once-over

Examples of once-over in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Code the shareholders wished out before us like slugs in a... Conversion Karen Solie First impression of a hasty once-over. — Max Ufberg, hazlitt.net, 10 Jan. 2025 Check For Pests Give every plant a once-over before bringing them indoors. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 30 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1913, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of once-over was in 1913

Rhymes for once-over

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Cite this Entry

“Once-over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/once-over. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

once-over

noun
ˈwən(t)-ˌsō-vər
: a quick glance or examination
gave the menu the once-over

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