General
knuckledragger
What does knuckledragger mean?
Affectionately insulting slang for orthopaedic surgeons, playing on a stereotype of strength-heavy, cerebrally-light practice.
"Bones need fixing — call the knuckledraggers."
Origin
Interdepartmental slang mocking orthopaedics.
Frequently asked questions
What is a 'knuckledragger' in medicine?
It's teasing slang for an orthopaedic surgeon, based on a stereotype of them being strong and hands-on but not very cerebral.
Is calling someone a knuckledragger offensive?
It's meant affectionately as interdepartmental banter, though it plays on a mocking stereotype so it's best kept among colleagues.
Where does the term come from?
It comes from the caveman-style image of dragging one's knuckles, implying brawn over brains.
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