knack
The origin and history of knack.
Etymology
Recorded in Middle English originally for a sharp sound or sudden blow, likely imitating the noise itself. By the late 1500s the word had shifted to mean a clever trick or special skill — the idea of doing something with a quick, effortless snap.
Class of 1500
knack first entered the language around 1500. Other words from the same year:
See the full Class of 1500 →