Clobber
/ˈklɒbər/noun
To hit, defeat, or damage someone or something severely; in British English, it can also mean clothing or personal belongings.
Did you know?During World War II, British Royal Air Force slang used “clobber” for bombing or attacking a target, helping popularize its modern sense of hitting hard.
Etymological Timeline
Before the 20th century
English dialects
clobber
“A regional or colloquial word associated with clothing, belongings, or miscellaneous items; the precise origin is uncertain.”
Early 20th Century
British English
clobber
“Colloquial British usage for clothes or personal possessions.”
1940s
Royal Air Force slang
clobber
“To bomb, attack, or strike a target; this wartime use is often linked to the modern violent sense.”
Mid-20th Century
English
clobber
“To hit or defeat decisively.”
Modern English
English
clobber
“To damage, overwhelm, or beat severely; chiefly British, also clothing or belongings.”