Pronunciation: [bˈə͡ʊl dˈa͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "bowl down" is pronounced /boʊl daʊn/. The first word, "bowl," is spelled with a "b" sound in the beginning, followed by an "o" sound, then a "w" sound, and finally a "l" sound. The second word, "down," is spelled with a "d" sound followed by an "ow" sound, which is pronounced like "aʊ" in American English. Together, the phrase means to knock down or defeat.
The term "bowl down" can be defined as a phrase that signifies the action of knocking down or causing something or someone to fall with great force or impact, resembling the act of a ball striking pins in bowling. It is often used metaphorically to describe the act of overpowering or defeating someone or something, usually in a figurative sense.
In a literal context, "bowl down" can refer to the act of knocking down objects or people with a forceful strike, similar to how a bowling ball would knock down pins. For instance, it can describe the action of a strong wind gust forcefully knocking down trees or structures. Similarly, it can refer to the act of a person or animal accidentally or intentionally causing someone to fall or lose balance through a sudden impact.
Figuratively, "bowl down" expresses the idea of overpowering or defeating someone or something in a dominant and forceful manner. It can refer to the act of defeating adversaries, obstacles, or challenges with great determination or overwhelming strength. For example, one might use the phrase to describe a team that had an overwhelming victory against their opponent, dominating the game. Additionally, "bowl down" can also imply showing profound respect or submission towards someone of authority, using the notion of being knocked down as a metaphorical sign of reverence or submission.
The phrase "bowl down" has its origins in the game of bowling, a sport in which a ball is rolled towards a target on a flat surface, usually in an attempt to knock down a set of pins.
The word "bowl" comes from the Old English word "bolla", which meant a round vessel or a cup. In Middle English, the term "bowling" emerged to specifically refer to the sport of rolling a ball to knock down pins.
The addition of the word "down" to "bowl" in the phrase "bowl down" emphasizes the action of knocking down the pins. It suggests the act of forcefully rolling the ball in order to cause the pins to fall. Over time, "bowl down" has also taken on a figurative meaning of defeating, humbling, or subduing someone or something.
