n.
Pronunciation: ' n ə -k ə l
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English knokel; akin to Middle High German knöchel knuckle
Date: 14th century
1 a : the rounded prominence formed by the ends of the two adjacent bones at a joint ― used especially of those at the joints of the fingers b : the joint of a knuckle
2 : a cut of meat consisting of the tarsal or carpal joint with the adjoining flesh
3 : something resembling a knuckle: as a (1) : one of the joining parts of a hinge through which a pin or rivet passes (2) : KNUCKLE JOINT b : the meeting of two surfaces at a sharp angle (as in a roof) c : a pivotal point
4 plural : a set of metal finger rings or guards attached to a transverse piece and worn over the front of the doubled fist for use as a weapon ― called also brass knuckles
– knuck · led adjective