Learn English – Why does “sucker” mean “unexpected” in “Sucker Punch”

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Sucker punch seems to mean "an unexpected punch" in slang. What is the origin of this term and why does sucker mean unexpected in sucker punch?

Best Answer

The sucker here has a much longer history than some would have you believe. Basically, sucker punch derives from one of the meanings of the word sucker (NOAD):

sucker 2 informal a gullible or easily deceived person.

Therefore, a "sucker" would be easy to fool with a surprise punch. Etymonline dates the use of the term to 1836, and it appears to derive from the expression for a young mammal before it is weaned, i.e. one that is still sucking at its mother's teat.

Note that despite what Thursagen states, Etymonline also gives different dates for the term suckerpunch:

suckerpunch (n.)
also sucker punch, 1926, from sucker + punch. Figurative use by 1929. As a verb by 1942. Related: Sucker-punched.