noun
Uncommon
knob
nob
Knob (noun) means a rounded lump or handle, especially one used to turn or open something. Example: “Turn the volume knob to the left to make it quieter.”
noun
1
A rounded lump or handle, especially one used to turn or open something.
"Turn the volume knob to the left to make it quieter."
"He gripped the door knob but found it locked."
2
A rounded hill or bump on a ridge.
"The trail climbed over a small knob before dropping into the valley."
How to use knob
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA rounded lump, especially a control you turn, like on a radio or door.
When to use it
In British slang, "knob" is also a crude term for the penis, or an insult meaning an idiot — context makes the meaning obvious.
Common pairings
a door knob
turn the knob
a knob of butter
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Word forms
- Plural
- knobs
- Third person singular
- knobs
- Past tense
- knobbed
Etymology
From Middle English knobbe, related to Middle Low German knobbe ("knob, bud"), part of a wider family of Germanic words for lumps and bumps.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for knob
See all rhymes for knob →Frequently asked questions
What does “knob” mean?
The word “knob” means a rounded lump or handle, especially one used to turn or open something. In plain terms, a rounded lump, especially a control you turn, like on a radio or door.
How do you pronounce “knob”?
“Knob” is pronounced nob (/nɑb/ in IPA).
How do you use “knob” in a sentence?
Here is “knob” used in a sentence: “Turn the volume knob to the left to make it quieter.”
What is another word for “knob”?
Words with a similar meaning to “knob” include get up in and schlong.
What part of speech is “knob”?
“Knob” is a noun.
Where does the word “knob” come from?
The word “knob” comes from Middle English. From Middle English knobbe, related to Middle Low German knobbe ("knob, bud"), part of a wider family of Germanic words for lumps and bumps.
Is “knob” a common word?
“Knob” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “knob” have?
“Knob” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a rounded lump or handle, especially one used to turn or open something.
