knob
knob Lexical Profile
knob Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A rounded lump or protuberance, especially one that serves as a handle on a door, drawer, or piece of furniture.
"She turned the brass knob and gently pushed the heavy wooden door open."
A circular switch or dial on a piece of machinery, stove, or electronic equipment used to control its operation.
"He adjusted the volume knob on the amplifier before starting his guitar solo."
British A foolish, annoying, or contemptible person.
"Don't be such a knob; just apologize for what you said to him."
Word Nuance & Usage
In British and Commonwealth English, 'knob' is frequently used as a mildly vulgar slang term for a penis or as a derogatory insult for a foolish person, which can cause unintended offense if used carelessly by North American speakers.
• Rhymes for knob
Word Origin & Etymology
Late Middle English: from Middle Low German 'knobbe' (meaning knot or knob) or Middle Dutch 'cnoppe', of Germanic origin. It is closely related to the word 'knop'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.