transitive verb

Etymology: ME pochen < MFr pochier, to pocket < poche, pouch, pocket (< Frank *pokka, pocket: for IE base see poke): the yolk is “pocketed” in the white

transitive verb

1. to soften, tear up, or make holes in (ground) by stamping; trample
2. to mix with water until smooth
3. 1. to trespass on (private property), esp. for hunting or fishing
   2. to hunt or catch (game or fish) illegally, esp. by trespassing
4. to take (anything) by unfair or illegal methods; steal

Etymology: Fr pocher < OFr pochier, to tread upon, intrude < MHG bochen, puchen, to strike upon, plunder, akin to poke

intransitive verb

1. to sink into soft or wet earth when walking
2. to become soggy or full of holes when trampled; turn into mud
3. to hunt or fish illegally, esp. by trespassing on
4. Racket Sports to return a shot near the net that was intended for one's partner in the back court