A clock or timer which when activated logs the time (originally by punching a card), used in a workplace to record employees' arrival and departure times.
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in The Chicago Tribune.
Definition of punch clock in US English:
punch clock
noun
A clock or timer which when activated logs the time (originally by punching a card), used in a workplace to record employees' arrival and departure times.
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in The Chicago Tribune.