A concussion or blow which impairs the stability of something; often figurative a damaging blow (e.g. to an institution, a state of things, a…

figurative. An act whereby the feelings are deeply wounded, as a sarcasm, an act of unkindness, etc.; a severe disaster or misfortune; a blow, shock.

figurative. A sudden blow or stroke that casts down, confounds, depresses, dispirits, etc.; an affliction, discouragement. Obsolete.

A misfortune, a rebuff, a blow; adverse criticism. Frequently in to take the knock: to sustain a severe financial or emotional blow, to suffer a…

transferred and figurative. A sudden and violent effect tending to impair the stability or permanence of something; a damaging blow (to a…

figurative. A severe disaster, a sudden and painful calamity; especially as sustained or felt by the sufferer, a sudden and severe shock.

figurative. A calamitous event; †a ‘blow’ to, upon (a person, institution, etc.).

figurative. A severe setback; a rebuff, snub. Also: a mark of a damaged reputation.