Knuckle - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A knuckle is the joint of a finger, especially where it connects to the hand. It is also the rounded part of a joint in meat, such as pork or beef.
Definition:
The joint of a finger where it connects to the hand or between finger bones.
Synonyms:
joint, finger joint, metacarpophalangeal joint
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
fingertip, palm
Common Collocations:
knuckle down, knuckle under, white-knuckle ride
Derivatives:
knuckled, knuckling
Usage Tips:
Use "knuckle" as a noun for finger joints or as a verb meaning to press with knuckles (e.g., "knuckle the door").
Common Phrases:
near the knuckle, rap on the knuckles, white-knuckle
Etymology:
From Middle English "knokel," diminutive of "knoke" (bone), related to Dutch "knokkel."
Examples:
- 1. He bruised his knuckle while boxing.
- 2. She rapped her knuckles on the table impatiently.
- 3. The child sucked his knuckle after scraping it.
- 4. He had to knuckle down to finish his project.