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.
Jennifer worked knee-deep in oil for months, returning home reeking of fumes, covered in black splotches and breaking out in rashes and suffering headaches. Jack Brook, Los Angeles Times, 21 Apr. 2025 Around 2010 to 2011, as Woods walked knee-deep in the funk of public embarrassment, endless injuries and a broken swing, the door swung open to players desperate for space in major tournaments. Brendan Quinn, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025 As the defending national champions, the Pioneers wade knee-deep in high expectations. Troy Renck, The Denver Post, 5 Mar. 2025 Crews had to use inflatable boats to get through the knee-deep water, which in part aided in the rescue of about 200 people. Taylor Ardrey, USA TODAY, 21 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Knee-deep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/knee-deep. Accessed 5 May. 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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