1
a
: sunk to the knees
knee-deep in mud
b
: deeply engaged or occupied
knee-deep in work
2

Examples of knee-deep in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even though the Big Honey’s knee-deep in racing mode for a few more weeks, he’s noticed. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 9 July 2025 Firefighters used a throw bag to rescue a third person while forming a wedge to safely walk through the fast-moving, knee-deep water to reach and assist the other two people and their dog, according to Tucson Fire. Jose R. Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 5 July 2025 Indulging in their family pastime, the Macleans find reprieve from their troubles and tragedies while knee-deep in the Blackfoot River. Derek Scancarelli, EW.com, 27 June 2025 Climbing 18,000 feet, through knee-deep snow in some years, and descending more than 23,000 feet into infernal canyons with temps bubbling up to 120 degrees, WSER isn’t a feat for mere mortals. Miriam Schwartz, Boston Herald, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for knee-deep

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of knee-deep was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Knee-deep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/knee-deep. Accessed 16 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

knee-deep

adjective
-ˈdēp
: being up to one's knees
knee-deep in mud
knee-deep snowdrifts

More from Merriam-Webster on knee-deep

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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