hard-hitting

adjective

hard-hit·​ting ˈhärd-ˈhi-tiŋ How to pronounce hard-hitting (audio)
: strikingly effective in force or result
a hard-hitting exposé
plain hard-hitting English

Examples of hard-hitting in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With a reputation as a speedy, hard-hitting impact player, Houston commanded the respect of District 3-6A coaches in 2025, earning district MVP honors — an award typically reserved for quarterbacks, receivers and running backs. — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Oct. 2026 The hard-hitting stuff happening over here on Dancing With the Stars! — Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 14 Oct. 2026 Fitzpatrick has already been known as a hard-hitting defensive back. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2026 Skillet’s newest songs are on After the Storm, a hard-hitting heavy metal EP to be released October 2. — Steve Appleford, SPIN, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hard-hitting

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hard-hitting was in 1831

Rhymes for hard-hitting

See All Rhymes for hard-hitting

Browse Nearby Words

hard-hit
hard-hitting
hardie
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hard-hitting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hard-hitting. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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