KNUCKER Meaning and
Definition
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Knucker is a term that holds multiple interpretations, depending on the context it is used in. Primarily, knucker refers to a mythical creature commonly found in English folklore, particularly in Sussex. The knucker is described as a fearsome and immense dragon-like creature, inhabiting deep pools or marshes, often guarding a hoard of treasure. It typically possesses the ability to breathe fire and is renowned for its malevolent and aggressive nature.
Furthermore, the term knucker can also denote a specific type of dragon-shaped wooden effigy, popularly found as a weather vane or architectural decoration on historical structures, particularly in England. These decorative knuckers are often carved from wood or made from metal, and serve as an ornamental reminder of the mythical creature they represent.
Beyond the mythological and decorative references, knucker can also be employed metaphorically to describe an individual who is cunning, deceitful, or scheming. In this sense, it portrays someone who possesses dragon-like qualities, such as being fierce, ruthless, or untrustworthy. However, this usage varies in frequency and may not be widely recognized or accepted in standard dictionaries.
Overall, knucker encapsulates a mythical creature, an ornamental representation, and a metaphorical characterization, each imbued with distinctive connotations related to folklore, artistry, and figurative language, respectively.
Etymology of KNUCKER
The word "knucker" is believed to have originated from the Old English term "cnocian" or "cnoc", which means "to strike" or "to knock". In Middle English, it evolved into "knokke" or "knok", which also refers to a sudden blow or impact. Over time, the term "knucker" emerged, most likely as a variant or derivative of "knock" or "knock-kneed", which means having unusually bent knees. It is worth noting that "knucker" can also refer to a mythical water dragon or serpent, particularly in English folklore, but the etymology of this usage is unclear.
