n. , slang 1. A quick look; a swift examination of someone or something. Usually used with "give" or "get". The new boy got the once-over from the rest of the class when he came in. Bob gave his paper the once-over before handing it in. 2. or once-over-lightly A quick or careless job, especially of cleaning or straightening; work done hastily for now. Ann gave her room a quick once-over-lightty with the broom and dust cloth. "Just give my hair the once-over," Al said to the barber.
Compare: LICK AND A PROMISE.