Knuckling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤜
Add to dictionary

knuckling

[ˈnʌk.lɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

Knuckling refers to the action of bending or striking with the knuckles, often associated with the joints of the fingers. This term can also describe the act of using one's knuckles to apply pressure or perform a specific movement. It is commonly used in various contexts, including sports, martial arts, and even casual gestures in social interactions. The term may also imply a certain level of force or strength exerted during the action.

Synonyms

bending, pressing, punching, striking.

Examples of usage

  • He was knuckling the dough for the bread.
  • She knuckled down to finish her homework on time.
  • After the sudden impact, he was knuckling his fingers in pain.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'knuckling'

The term 'knuckle' originates from the Old English word 'cnuc(c)' meaning a joint of the finger. Historically, the knuckles have been significant in various cultural practices, including martial arts where striking with the knuckles is a common technique. The word has evolved over time, extending beyond physical descriptions to include a variety of meanings and usages. The action of 'knuckling' is often associated with determination, as in the phrase 'knuckle down', which reflects a decision to work hard or focus on a task. In various languages, similar terms exist, showing a common understanding of the knuckles as a powerful and useful part of human anatomy.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,210, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.