KNUCKLE Meaning and
Definition
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Knuckle refers to a specific part of the human finger joint or similar structures in the limbs of certain animals, where two bones or joints meet. In humans, knuckles are the rounded bony prominences formed by the terminal portions of the finger joints, especially the metacarpophalangeal joints. The knuckles play a crucial role in the flexion and extension of fingers, allowing for gripping, grasping, and manipulating objects. They also provide stability and support to the fingers during movements.
Furthermore, the term knuckle can also pertain to similar joints or bony structures in the limbs of animals, particularly in the forelimbs or paws of quadrupeds. These knuckles are vital for weight-bearing, locomotion, and balance. They help animals walk, run, and climb with agility, enhancing their overall motor skills and functionality.
Metaphorically, "knuckle" can be used as a slang term to describe punching someone, typically with a closed fist, leading with the knuckles. This usage often denotes a violent act of physical aggression or confrontation.
In a broader sense, "knuckle" can also relate to a rounded protrusion or ridge on a particular object, resembling a joint or bone. Examples include the knuckles on a door, where the handle and latch meet, or knuckle-like shapes in car engines or mechanical systems.
Overall, the term "knuckle" encompasses anatomical, functional, and metaphorical aspects, focusing on the joints, bony structures, and their respective roles in human and animal physiology, physical force, and object design.
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1. A finger joint. 2. The loop of intestine in a hernia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• The outer part of the joint of a finger when bent.
• To strike with the knuckles; to bend the fingers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for KNUCKLE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for KNUCKLE
Etymology of KNUCKLE
The word "knuckle" originates from the Old English word "cnucel", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "knuck-". This, in turn, can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*genu-", meaning "knee". The term also has connections to the Old Norse word "knokull" and the Old High German word "knoccho", both of which refer to the joint at the base of the finger or toe. Over time, the term evolved to specifically represent the prominent joint formed by the articulation of the fingers.
Idioms with the word KNUCKLE
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near the knuckle
The idiom "near the knuckle" refers to something that is close to being offensive or inappropriate, usually in terms of humor or language. It suggests that the subject matter or joke is just on the verge of crossing the line of acceptability, often touching upon sensitive or controversial topics.
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a knuckle sandwich
The idiom "a knuckle sandwich" refers to a physical punch or blow delivered with a closed fist, typically targeting someone's face. It is a colloquial expression used to convey the act of physical violence or aggression.
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knuckle sandwich
The idiom "knuckle sandwich" refers to a punch or physical attack, often conveyed using humor or sarcasm. It implies getting hit by someone's closed fist, as if they were serving you a sandwich made with their knuckles as the main ingredients.
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white knuckle sth
The idiom "white knuckle something" typically refers to a situation or experience that causes extreme fear, anxiety, or tension. It originates from the physical reaction of gripping something tightly, causing the knuckles to turn white due to the intense stress or fear. This idiom is often used to describe nerve-wracking or thrilling activities such as an intense roller coaster ride, a scary movie, a turbulent airplane journey, or any situation that generates a strong emotional response.
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be near the knuckle
The idiom "be near the knuckle" refers to a statement, joke, or comment that is on the verge of being offensive or socially inappropriate. It suggests that something is close to crossing the line of what is acceptable or considered in good taste.
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knuckle under (to sb/sth)
The idiom "knuckle under (to sb/sth)" means to submit or surrender to someone or something, often against one's will or better judgment. It implies giving in, obeying, or accepting authority or control, usually due to pressure, fear, or a lack of alternative options.
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knuckle down
The idiom "knuckle down" means to apply oneself with great determination and focus to a task or goal, putting in concerted effort and hard work. It implies a willingness to concentrate and put aside distractions or procrastination.
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knuckle under (to sm or sth)
The idiom "knuckle under (to someone or something)" means to submit, surrender, or yield to someone or something, especially against one's will or desires. It implies giving in to authority or pressure.
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knuckle down (to sth)
To "knuckle down (to something)" means to apply oneself diligently and seriously to a task or goal, usually implying a greater level of focus and effort. It suggests the notion of being disciplined and determined to tackle a specific task or challenge, often requiring concentration and perseverance.
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knuckle down (to something)
The idiom "knuckle down (to something)" means to apply oneself diligently and seriously to a task or work. It implies focusing on the task at hand and concentrating on completing it with determination and perseverance.
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go the knuckle
The idiom "go the knuckle" is primarily used in Australian and New Zealand slang. It refers to the act of engaging in a physical confrontation or a physical altercation, often involving fighting or violence. It implies a situation where someone resorts to their fists or physical aggression to resolve a conflict or a disagreement.
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knuckle under
The idiom "knuckle under" means to submit or yield to someone or something, especially reluctantly or under pressure.
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knuckle under (to someone or something)
To "knuckle under (to someone or something)" means to submit or yield to someone or something, typically under pressure or authority. It implies surrendering one's will or compliance in the face of a stronger force or dominant figure.
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white knuckle something
The idiom "white knuckle something" refers to a situation that causes extreme fear, anxiety, or tension, often leading to tightly gripping or clenching one's fists or hands so hard that the knuckles turn white. It denotes a high level of tension, usually associated with dangerous or thrilling activities, such as a terrifying roller coaster ride, a gripping suspenseful movie, or a nerve-wracking experience.
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knuckle under (to someone/something)
The idiom "knuckle under (to someone/something)" means to submit or yield to someone or something, typically under pressure or against one's will. It implies giving in or surrendering to authority or a situation, often when faced with dominance or coercion.
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knuckle-dragger
The idiom "knuckle-dragger" is a derogatory term used to describe a person who is perceived as primitive, unintelligent, or lacking refinement. It is often used to imply that someone is uncivilized or displays a lack of sophistication in their behavior or thinking. The term originates from the notion that knuckle-dragging is associated with apes or cavemen who allegedly walked with their hands dragging on the ground.
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white-knuckle
The idiom "white-knuckle" refers to a situation or experience that is extremely tense, nerve-wracking, or fearful. It describes a situation that causes intense anxiety, often leading to gripping something so tightly that one's knuckles turn white.
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knuckle bones
Knuckle bones can refer to a set of small, specially designed bones used in certain traditional games or gambling activities. It can also refer to the bones of the knuckles in the hand.
Similar spelling words for KNUCKLE
Conjugate verb Knuckle
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have knuckled
you
would have knuckled
he/she/it
would have knuckled
we
would have knuckled
they
would have knuckled
I
would have knuckle
you
would have knuckle
he/she/it
would have knuckle
we
would have knuckle
they
would have knuckle
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been knuckling
you
would have been knuckling
he/she/it
would have been knuckling
we
would have been knuckling
they
would have been knuckling
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would knuckle
you
would knuckle
he/she/it
would knuckle
we
would knuckle
they
would knuckle
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be knuckling
you
would be knuckling
he/she/it
would be knuckling
we
would be knuckling
they
would be knuckling
FUTURE
I
will knuckle
you
will knuckle
he/she/it
will knuckle
we
will knuckle
they
will knuckle
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be knuckling
you
will be knuckling
he/she/it
will be knuckling
we
will be knuckling
they
will be knuckling
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have knuckled
you
will have knuckled
he/she/it
will have knuckled
we
will have knuckled
they
will have knuckled
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been knuckling
you
will have been knuckling
he/she/it
will have been knuckling
we
will have been knuckling
they
will have been knuckling
IMPERATIVE
you
knuckle
we
let´s knuckle
to knuckle
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was knuckling
you
were knuckling
he/she/it
was knuckling
we
were knuckling
they
were knuckling
PAST PARTICIPLE
knuckled
PAST PERFECT
I
had knuckled
you
had knuckled
he/she/it
had knuckled
we
had knuckled
they
had knuckled
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been knuckling
you
had been knuckling
he/she/it
had been knuckling
we
had been knuckling
they
had been knuckling
PRESENT
I
knuckle
you
knuckle
he/she/it
knuckles
we
knuckle
they
knuckle
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am knuckling
you
are knuckling
he/she/it
is knuckling
we
are knuckling
they
are knuckling
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
knuckling
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have knuckled
you
have knuckled
he/she/it
has knuckled
we
have knuckled
they
have knuckled
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been knuckling
you
have been knuckling
he/she/it
has been knuckling
we
have been knuckling
they
have been knuckling
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
knuckle
SIMPLE PAST
I
knuckled
you
knuckled
he/she/it
knuckled
we
knuckled
they
knuckled
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