knockabout Hear it!

knockabout Definition

knock·about (-ə bo̵ut′)

noun

  1. ☆ a small, single-masted sailing vessel with a mainsail and jib, but no bowsprit
  2. something suitable for knockabout use

adjective

  1. rough; noisy; boisterous
  2. made or suitable for knocking about or rough use
knockabout Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

  • farce: It can be played successfully for knockabout farce, sweet sentimentality or dark irony.
  • comedy: In Blewbury Players ' production, however, the lovers gave a breathtaking display of knockabout comedy ( literally!
  • humor: There is magic and romance and a healthy dollop of knockabout humor.
  • stuff: Dr. Reid's speech will be good knockabout stuff, and the chance to poke fun at the Tories when they're down.
  • fun: The first two entries in the franchise were ( I blush to repeat this ) knockabout fun, with a genuine emotional core.
  • style: The whole thing lasts about 45 minutes and is conducted in a knockabout style, with many asides to the audience.

Modifying Another Word

  • just: This isn't just knockabout, putting down Littlejohn & Moore.