A quick, cursory amount of attention given to someone or something, as when inspecting, reviewing, or cleaning. Can you give my paper a once-over? Just see if you spot any typos. I want you to tidy the place a little before Mary gets here. You don't need to clean every corner of the house, just a quick once-over will do. The sergeant entered the barracks and gave the soldiers a once-over to make sure their bunks and uniforms were in order.