1. a setback or reversal; an unexpected failure or rejection
Usage: informal; chiefly British
2. a strong alcoholic drink, especially one consumed quickly
Usage: informal; slang

Examples

• Losing the championship was a major knockback for the team.
• The rejection from the university was a real knockback, but she applied again the next year.
• After several knockbacks in his career, he finally got his big break.
• He ordered a knockback of whiskey at the bar.
• The company faced a knockback when their product failed to launch on schedule.
• Despite the knockback, she remained determined to succeed.