to knock down

Dictionary of American Words And Phrases by John Russell Bartlett.

A word used at auctions. 'This article is knocked down to you, sir;' meaning, that you are the purchaser. The phrase, 'A knock--down argument,' is an argument that completely overthrows one's adversary.


When I have conversed with a slaveholder--and I assure you I have done so very frequently--the only 'knock-down' argument is, "They are better off than your poor whites at the North."--Letter from N. O.--Trib.

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