Definition
Standing erect but not consciously aware of one's surroundings, or only minimally aware, and having little or no ability to control one's bodily actions, as a result of physical injury or exhaustion.
Stupefied; dazed; nonfunctional.
Origins
From the sport of boxing, referring to fighter who is too stunned to fight effectively, but who does not collapse to the canvas.
In Context
- "Such schedules frequently leave them ragged and unrested. "How good is it for a patient to be treated by an intern who is almost out on his feet?" she asked."
- "But several of his teammates later said Toomer was jabbering nonsensically in the huddle and seemed out on his feet."
- "We had so many games to cram in such a short space of time, it really stretched our squad and the lads were out on their feet."
- ""Well sir, that girl was simply out on her feet. It wasn't from drinking, either. I'm something of a hypnotist myself and I quickly realized that she was in a real hypnotic trance, brought on by Puffy's staring into her eyes.""
- "According to Savitt there are many such small concerns who are out on their feet, and still in a state of shock."
- "The new leader who will be elected on April 6, becoming Prime Minister shortly thereafter, is likely to be very nearly out on his feet."
Also Said As
- out of it
- punch drunk
See Also
- on the ropes