whale on
The slang phrase "whale on" conveys intense and repeated physical or verbal aggression.
Definition
B2Physical Confrontation
(informal)To hit someone repeatedly and with great force.
Example
- During the fight, he whaled on his opponent until the referee intervened.
B2General Use
(informal)To strike something vigorously and repeatedly.
Example
- He whaled on the punching bag to release his frustration.
B2Verbal Confrontation
(informal)To criticize someone harshly and continuously.
Example
- The coach whaled on the team for their poor performance.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "whale on":