Shank: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆต
shank
[สรฆลk ]
Definitions
body part
The term 'shank' refers to the part of the leg in humans or animals that is located between the knee and the ankle. In culinary contexts, it can also denote a particular cut of meat from the leg of an animal. Additionally, in legal contexts, 'shank' can refer to a makeshift weapon, often created in prisons. Overall, the usage of 'shank' varies significantly depending on the context in which it is used, leading to multiple interpretations.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The shank of the leg is critical for movement.
- I ordered a shank of lamb for dinner.
- He made a shank from a piece of metal in prison.
- The doctor examined the shank for any injuries.
slang
In slang terms, to 'shank' someone means to stab them, typically with a makeshift weapon. This usage is often associated with prison culture or violent altercations. The act of shanking can imply a sudden, stealthy attack intended to inflict harm on another individual.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He was shanked during the fight.
- You need to be careful, or you might get shanked in prison.
- They talked about the dangers of being shanked.
- He was rushed to the hospital after being shanked.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- Originates from Middle English, referring specifically to the lower part of the leg or to the shaft of a tool.
- Related to the Old English word 'sceanca', which means 'shank' or 'leg'.
Sports
- In sports, particularly in soccer, to 'shank' a ball means to hit it poorly, leading to an unexpected direction.
- Shanking a golf shot typically results in a slice or hook, demonstrating a lack of control.
Literature
- In Charles Dickens' 'Great Expectations', the character Magwitch is often described with 'shank-like' features, hinting at his ruggedness.
- The term shows up in folklore and tales to describe the human leg or to reference strength in characters.
Culinary Uses
- In cooking, 'shank' refers to cuts of meat from the leg, often used in stews due to their rich flavor.
- Popular in various cuisines, lamb and beef shanks are staples that become tender when slow-cooked.
History
- During the Middle Ages, the term referred to the function of a shank in surgical blades and sharp tools.
- Prison slang has adopted 'shank' to refer to makeshift knives, illustrating the darker use of the term.
Translations
Translations of the word "shank" in other languages:
๐ต๐น punhal
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเคเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Messer
๐ฎ๐ฉ pisau
๐บ๐ฆ ะฝัะถ
๐ต๐ฑ nรณลผ
๐ฏ๐ต ใใคใ
๐ซ๐ท couteau
๐ช๐ธ cuchillo
๐น๐ท bฤฑรงak
๐ฐ๐ท ์นผ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุณููู
๐จ๐ฟ nลฏลพ
๐ธ๐ฐ nรดลพ
๐จ๐ณ ๅ
๐ธ๐ฎ noลพ
๐ฎ๐ธ hnรญfur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฟััะฐา
๐ฌ๐ช แฉแแฅแฃแฉแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ bฤฑรงaq
๐ฒ๐ฝ cuchillo