punch the clock

Related to word: punch

Idiom

Definition

  1. To record one's arrival and departure times at work using a time clock.

    • Employees must punch the clock every morning when they arrive at work and again when they leave in the afternoon.

    • In the past, factory workers would use a time clock to record their work hours.

    • Despite technological advancements, many companies still require employees to punch the clock.

  2. To routinely go to work on a daily basis.

    • She was tired of punching the clock every day and yearned for a more fulfilling job.

    • He punches the clock every day, always on time and reliable.

    • Since starting to work from home, I no longer have to punch the clock every day.