Put somebody over your knee
verb phrase
To physically place a person, typically a child, across your lap with the intention of spanking them as a form of discipline or punishment.
If you don't stop misbehaving, I'll have to put you over my knee.
Often appears as...
- threaten to put someone over your knee
- i'll put you over my knee
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To establish dominance or authority over another person. This usage is metaphorical and does not involve physical action.
He tried to put me over his knee in the meeting, but I stood my ground.
Often appears as...
- try to put someone over your knee
- attempt to put her over his knee
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To physically place a person, typically a child, across your lap with the intention of spanking them as a form of discipline or punishment.
If you don't stop misbehaving, I'll have to put you over my knee.
Often appears as...
- threaten to put someone over your knee
- i'll put you over my knee
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To establish dominance or authority over another person. This usage is metaphorical and does not involve physical action.
He tried to put me over his knee in the meeting, but I stood my ground.
Often appears as...
- try to put someone over your knee
- attempt to put her over his knee
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Parental Discipline
Used by parents implying strict discipline, mostly considered outdated and inappropriate now.
Back in their days, parents would often threaten to put a child over their knee for misbehaving.
Pro Tip 2/3Anger Expression
Shows the speaker's frustration or anger, but doesn't mean they will actually do it.
He was so frustrated he said he would put the mischievous boy over his knee.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Some cultures view this as a normal part of parenting, while others consider it harsh or violent.
In some cultures, saying you’d put someone over your knee is frowned upon.
Pro Tip 1/3Parental Discipline
Used by parents implying strict discipline, mostly considered outdated and inappropriate now.
Back in their days, parents would often threaten to put a child over their knee for misbehaving.
Pro Tip 2/3Anger Expression
Shows the speaker's frustration or anger, but doesn't mean they will actually do it.
He was so frustrated he said he would put the mischievous boy over his knee.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Some cultures view this as a normal part of parenting, while others consider it harsh or violent.
In some cultures, saying you’d put someone over your knee is frowned upon.
Pro Tip 1/3Parental Discipline
Used by parents implying strict discipline, mostly considered outdated and inappropriate now.
Back in their days, parents would often threaten to put a child over their knee for misbehaving.
Pro Tip 2/3Anger Expression
Shows the speaker's frustration or anger, but doesn't mean they will actually do it.
He was so frustrated he said he would put the mischievous boy over his knee.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Some cultures view this as a normal part of parenting, while others consider it harsh or violent.
In some cultures, saying you’d put someone over your knee is frowned upon.
Never forget "Put somebody over your knee"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension