box2

 
Pronunciation: /bɒks/

verb

[no object]
  • fight an opponent using one’s fists; compete in the sport of boxing: he boxed for England [with object]: he had to box Benn for the title

noun

[in singular]
  • a slap with the hand on the side of a person’s head: she gave him a box on the ear

Phrases

box clever

British informal act so as to outwit someone: she had to box clever, let Adam think she had accepted what he said

box someone's ears

slap someone on the side of the head, especially as a punishment: stop hanging back or I’ll box your ears

Origin:

late Middle English (in the general sense 'a blow'): of unknown origin