Definition of knock around

The phrase "knock around" first appeared in the mid-19th century in the context of boxing, where it was used to refer to the aggressive and forceful movements made by boxers during training or sparring sessions. The "knock" in "knock around" referred to the sound made by the boxers' fists hitting one another, while "around" denoted the movement involved in the training exercise. Over time, the meaning of "knock around" shifted from its boxing origins to a more general description of moving or traveling around casually, with no particular purpose or destination in mind. This broader interpretation is believed to have emerged in the late 19th century, as the phrase became more widely used in everyday speech. While the exact origin and evolution of "knock around" is unclear, it is possible that its transformation reflects the broader trend of boxing's increased mainstream popularity during the late 19th century, as well as changing attitudes towards leisure and mobility during this time.