n.
Pronunciation: ' p ə nch
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English pounce, punche, probably alteration of ponson, ponchon puncheon
Date: 14th century
1 a : a tool usually in the form of a short rod of steel that is variously shaped at one end for different operations (as forming, perforating, embossing, or cutting) b : a short tapering steel rod for driving the heads of nails below a surface c : a steel die faced with a letter in relief that is forced into a softer metal to form an intaglio matrix from which foundry type is cast d : a device or machine for cutting holes or notches (as in paper or cardboard)
2 : a hole or notch from a perforating operation