# put someone's lights out

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/put-someones-lights-out
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To cause someone to become unconscious, especially by striking him or her.

## Examples

- The boxer threatened to put his opponent's lights out.
- The bodyguard warned the intruder that he would put his lights out if he did not leave immediately.
- During the chaotic brawl, a single, precise blow from the veteran fighter was enough to put the attacker's lights out.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.