A "knock out" refers to a situation in which a competitor is defeated in a contest, particularly in sports like boxing or mixed martial arts. In these contexts, a knock out occurs when a fighter is struck with such force that they are unable to continue the match, often resulting in a referee stopping the fight. This decisive victory is typically celebrated as a demonstration of skill and power. In broader terms, the phrase "knock out" can also be used metaphorically to describe any situation where someone or something is overwhelmingly defeated or outperformed. For example, a team may "knock out" their opponents in a tournament, indicating a clear and decisive win. This usage highlights the effectiveness of one party over another in various competitive scenarios.