Knocked - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

past tense

The term 'knocked' refers to the past tense of the verb 'knock', which generally means to strike a surface noisily to attract attention. This action can occur on various surfaces, such as doors, walls, or windows. It is commonly used as a way to request entry or to announce one’s presence. Additionally, in a figurative sense, 'knocked' can refer to being defeated or rejected, as in a sports context. The verb emphasizes the action of hitting with a quick motion, often associated with a sound.

Synonyms

bang, bump, hit, pound, strike.

Examples of usage

She knocked on the door three times.
He knocked the ball out of the park.
They knocked loudly to be let in.
He knocked over the vase accidentally.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

In many cultures, knocking is a polite way to enter someone's home, often preceded by a greeting.
Some societies have traditions surrounding the number of knocks, which can signify urgency or formality.
In Japan, it's common to knock twice, pause, and then enter a room, showing respect to those inside.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'knock knock' is a popular setup in jokes, leading to playful punchlines.
Songs and movies frequently use knocking as a metaphor for opportunity or unexpected situations.
In horror films, knocking often signals a moment of suspense, building tension before a reveal.

Psychology

The act of knocking can elicit different emotional responses, such as excitement or anxiety, depending on the context.
Research in social psychology shows that the way you knock can affect perceptions of politeness.
In therapy settings, roleplay involving knocking can help individuals practice social interactions and boundaries.

Origin of 'knocked'

Main points about word origin

The word 'knock' comes from the Old English 'cnocian,' meaning to strike or hit.
In various languages, the equivalent term often relates to the sound made by the action, such as 'klopfen' in German.
Knocking sounds can often be found in idiomatic expressions, showing the word's cultural relevance.

The word 'knock' is derived from the Middle English term 'knocken', which traces back to the Old English 'cnocian', meaning 'to strike' or 'to rap'. There are connections to various Germanic languages, with similar terms appearing in Dutch 'knokken' and German 'knocken'. The evolution of the word reflects its use in various historical contexts, primarily focused on the action of rapping or striking to create noise. Through centuries, the term has retained its basic meaning while expanding into figurative usage in areas like sports and challenges. The modern English usage maintains a strong association with physical knocks, particularly in domestic settings, as well as symbolic representations of obstacles and achievements.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,526 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6523 projecting
6524 detention
6525 earthquake
6526 knocked
6527 disappointment
6528 antigen
6529 indifferent
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Knocked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations